HC Deb 13 June 2003 vol 406 cc170-1W
Mr. Greg Knight

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will review the new arrangements in place relating to the supply of vehicle number plates; and if he will make a statement. [115688]

Mr. Jamieson

The regulatory impact assessment that accompanied the regulations states thatthe effectiveness of tile scheme and the extent of the burden on small businesses will be reviewed two years from the date of the commencement order.

A review of the operation of the new arrangements will accordingly be completed by January 2005. The results of the review and any recommendations for change will be made public.

Mr. Greg Knight

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many representations he has received and from whom in respect of the new restrictions imposed this year on the sale and supply of vehicle number plates. [115689]

Mr. Spellar

Since the commencement of the register in January this year, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has received telephone inquiries on a daily basis. Most are from number plate suppliers about the detailed operation of the scheme.

In addition, written representations seeking exemptions from the scheme have been received from the Federation of British Vehicle Clubs and owners of historic vehicles, trailer retailers and distance sellers of number plates. To permit these exemptions would undermine the scheme by providing loopholes for criminals to exploit.

Mr. Greg Knight

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will exempt pre-1973 motor vehicles from the new rules imposed on the sale and supply of number plates. [R] [115690]

Mr. Spellar

This issue was carefully considered prior to the making of the relevant regulations. The theft of historic vehicles is a specialised but lucrative activity. To grant the suggested exemption would deny the protection against vehicle theft that this scheme brings to other motorists.