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Written question asked by Caroline Voaden (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026. It was answered by Simon Lightwood (Labour) on Wednesday, 20 May 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Parking: Fines

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps his Department are taking to ensure motorists are not incorrectly pursued for parking penalties as a result of Automatic Number Plate Recognition misreads.

Answer

The law allows the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to provide vehicle keeper information to those who can demonstrate reasonable cause to receive it.

The electronic release of vehicle keeper information to private parking companies following alleged parking breaches is subject to strict contractual terms. Companies must provide evidence of reasonable cause, ensure the accuracy of the information they submit, and confirm that the DVLA data matches the vehicle’s make, model, type and colour before pursuing the registered keeper.

Errors by parking companies can occasionally result in motorists being pursued incorrectly. Although such cases are rare, the DVLA takes action with the parking company concerned and the relevant Accredited Trade Association where issues arise. The DVLA and the Government Internal Audit Agency also carry out audits to ensure information is requested and used appropriately and that recipients have effective internal controls to protect the data.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
934
Session
2026-27
Related items
Parking: Private Sector
Friday, 10 July 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Fines Parking Vehicle number plates
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk