Overview

This bill aims to improve consumer protection in privately-owned, publicly-accessible car parks in England and Wales by requiring local authorities to license these car parks. The licensing system will regulate charges, communication practices, and other aspects of car park operation.

Description

The Consumer Protection (Private Car Parks) Bill mandates that the Secretary of State, within 12 months of the Act's passing, require all local authorities in England to establish licensing schemes for privately-owned, publicly-available, charging car parks. These schemes will:

• Set criteria for license acquisition, including limitations on penalty charges, a ban on intimidating correspondence, and mandatory clear display of terms and conditions.
• Establish a maximum level for fixed penalty charges.
• Allow local authorities to recover licensing scheme setup and administration costs through levies on car park operators.
• Permit exemptions from licensing in certain circumstances.
• Define penalties for unlicensed operators who issue penalty notices, charge fees, or obtain vehicle registration details from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.
• Specify a maximum license validity period.

The Secretary of State will set these requirements through regulations subject to parliamentary approval. The bill also includes provisions for funding and the Act's extent.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by Ministers of the Crown, government departments, or other public authorities as a consequence of this Act will be met from public funds. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Private car park operators: Will be directly affected by the need to obtain licenses, adhere to regulations, and potentially pay levies. They may face increased costs and administrative burdens.
• Local authorities: Will be responsible for implementing and administering the licensing schemes, including collecting levies.
• Consumers: May benefit from improved consumer protection through clearer regulations and fairer practices by car park operators. This could include lower penalty charges and less aggressive communication.

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