HC Deb 29 October 2002 vol 391 cc780-1W
Tim Loughton

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the answer of 21 October, Official Report, column 27W, how many local authorities have joined the scheme in using DVLA powers to wheelclamp and impound untaxed vehicles since the pilot in the London Borough of Newham. [78192]

Mr. Jamieson

Following the Secretary of State's announcement on 10 April, Newham, Lewisham, Wandsworth and Croydon have undertaken clamping and impounding unlicensed vehicles using devolved powers as DVLA's partners. Southend on Sea and Hastings have completed all the training and are due to commence operations shortly.

In addition the DVLA is giving free on-line access to the vehicles record to local authorities seeking information on keepers of those who abandon their cars. 200 local authorities have asked for this facility.

The roll-out of this initiative started on 1 October and to date, 19 are confirmed as being on-line. The remainder will be set up as soon as possible.