§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what assessment has been made of the impact of the implementation of the Private Securities Act 2001 on local authorities' ability to control the activities of private clamping and towing companies; and if he will make a statement. [77334]
§ Mr. DenhamI have been asked to reply.
The Private Security Industry Act 2001 will introduce for the first time effective regulation of the activities of those who clamp vehicles on private land. The Act provides for the compulsory licensing of all individuals involved in such activities. Licensing will be undertaken by the Security Industry Authority, which will work closely with local authorities and the police in ensuring proper compliance with the licensing requirement.
The provisions of the 2001 Act do not extend to the towing away of motor vehicles. We are, however, aware of the growing concern about towing activities and are currently consulting relevant bodies about the scale of the problem and what, if any, measures should be introduced to address it.