Lyn welcomed the announcement by Home Secretary Jacqui Smith that a consultation would be published shortly on proposals for a compulsory licensing scheme for wheel clamping companies. 

It will look at introducing compulsory licensing as well as industry-wide standards for signage, evidence, penalties, pounds and appeals. 

The measures aim to tackle the dodgy practices of a limited number of wheel clamping companies. Common complaints include excessive fees, hidden or missing warning signs, cars being impounded unreasonably quickly, the lack of a right to appeal, and the clamping of emergency vehicles and those belonging to disabled drivers. 

Lyn Brown MP said: 

“I know from my constituents how much time, effort and money can be wasted by the actions of unfair clampers, and how much anger their actions cause.

“The licensing of individual wheel clampers has improved standards, but I know that there is still a need for action against a small minority of dodgy companies. 

“The Government is looking at bringing in compulsory licensing of clamping companies, as well as clear industry standards to ensure that clampers are accountable. 

“If West Ham residents are experiencing problems with rogue wheel clampers then please get in touch with my office, and I will see what I can do to help."