Proper code will root out parking pirates

Anew report into the volume of charges being handed out by private parking companies has led to renewed calls for stricter regulation of the industry. It is hard to argue. Firms such as Smart Parking, Indigo and Vehicle Control Services which run many of the car parks in Tayside and Fife currently operate as judge, jury and executioner for those unfortunate enough to incorrectly use their strictlycontrolled premises.

Out-of-proportion fines quickly escalate if they go unpaid and the threat of court action is readily used.

They are issued with the collusion of the publicly-funded DVLA, which provides ownership details to the debt collecting agencies which so relentlessly pursue their prey.

It must be stressed, there is nothing illegal in their actions.

Numerous court cases have established, albeit not at the highest level in Scotland yet, that those using private car parks are entering contracts and are thus bound by their terms – sky-high penalties and all.

Whether what they are doing is morally defensible is another question, and not one for the law lords.

The firms involved are earning a reputation which they do not want.

It is time, therefore, for parliament to step in and ensure such companies’ legal actions are backed by a fair system of regulation and a clear code of conduct.