Government should get tough on clampers

• RAC Foundation wants force of law on clampers
• Conduct code launched to regulate industry
• Some clampers intimidate drivers to obtain fines

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The Government needs to get tough on cowboy wheel clampers and enforce a new code of practice which was launched for the industry today, says the RAC Foundation.

The foundation says the British Parking Association (BPA) code has the potential to plug large loopholes in the Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensing system that was introduced for the clamping industry last month.

Executive director of the foundation Edmund King says that while the SIA system licences people who actually clamp cars, it doesn't cover those who collect money.

Clamping companies are still free to use people with criminal records to get cash out of motorists - and King says many do so with intimidating tactics.

The BPA code says this shouldn't be the case, and also sets recommended tariffs for clamping and towing. Currently licensed operators are free to charge what they like.

King said: 'We want this Code of Practice to be given the force of law as a mandatory part of the licensing procedure.

'Until this happens, we are calling on the Government and all public bodies to pledge that they will only employ vehicle clamping companies who adhere to the code.'