§ Mr. LoveTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what evaluation has been undertaken of pilot schemes to allow local authorities to fine and remove vehicles without a valid road tax certificate; and if he will make a statement. [89408]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe London Borough of Newham was the first local authority to take on devolved powers to clamp and impound unlicensed vehicles in partnership with DVLA.
During the 12 months of the pilot scheme 2,000 vehicles were wheelclamped. Half of these vehicles were released upon payment with the result that these vehicles are now correctly registered.
Surveys undertaken by Newham council before and at the end of the pilot scheme showed the level of evasion had reduced by 15per cent., the result of additional and visible enforcement in the borough.