HL Deb 13 January 2004 vol 657 c80WA
Lord Morris of Manchester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Lord Davies of Oldham on 17 September 2003 (WA 188–190)whether their advice to local authorities on setting up and operating decriminalised parking enforcement addresses the need for vigilance in supervising the behavioural standards of employees of the contractors appointed by local authorities to administer parking penalties in their areas. [H L626]

Lord Davies of Oldham

Local authority circular 1/95Guidance of Decriminalised Parking Enforcement outside London gives detailed guidance to authorities on all aspects of taking on parking enforcement powers. Chapter 7 covers the role of parking attendants. Among the recommendations it notes the need for attendants to present a professional image, with qualities of firmness and sensitivity coupled with common sense and patience. It also emphasises the need for adequate training for parking attendants, their supervisors and managers so that they provide accurate, fair and consistent enforcement. This requirement applies whether parking attendants are employed by a local authority or by a contractor carrying out enforcement on their behalf.