§ Keith VazTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what regulations govern the activities of vehicle clamping companies; what recent correspondence he has received regarding such activities; and what action he plans to take to restrict those activities. [187950]
§ Ms BlearsThe number of letters received on the issue of wheel clamping is not available centrally.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) was created under the powers of the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to regulate this and other areas of the private security industry.
On current plans it will become an offence to engage in wheel clamping activities without an SIA licence with effect from 28 February 2005.
There will be three checks on individuals applying for licences:
An identity check of the licence applicant.A criminal record check to see if they have any relevant previous convictions.A check on professional competence to do the job.The requirement to show professional competence will include sections on proper payment procedures; correct identification and use of signs, lines and enforcement vehicles; and discretionary parking and customer care skills.