§ Mr AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on her proposals to penalise, deter and prevent abandoned vehicles; and if she will make a statement. [52225]
§ Margaret BeckettWe are determined that keepers of vehicles should take full responsibility for them. The Finance Bill includes enabling powers to reform the vehicle registration and licensing system to improve the accuracy of the vehicle record and thus to ensure that those who abandon cars can more easily be brought to book. The Government intend to consult motoring groups and other stakeholders on detailed reforms. The maximum penalty for abandoning a vehicle is a fine of £2,500 or three months' imprisonment or both.