A Black Country MP has declared war on car clampers after claiming some “intimidate” residents and charge “extortionate” fees.
Ian Austin has invited Keith Vaz MP, chairman of the Home Affairs Select Committee, to Dudley on Friday to speak to victims of clampers.
He has also written to Home Secretary Jacqui Smith and is calling for an inquiry into the way such firms operate.
Mr Austin said Mr Vaz had the power to order an inquiry and hoped he would be persuaded into doing so after hearing first-hand from victims in Dudley.
People from the town and surrounding villages who have had difficulties with clamping firms are being invited to attend the meeting, but they must book a place.
It will be held at Dudley Council House from 11am. People are asked to call Mr Austin on 01384 342504 or by emailing austini@parliament.uk for more information on the event. The Dudley North MP said: “The way the clamping companies are operating in this area is a total disgrace.
“I have been contacted by many local residents who feel the same way and, like me, want to see more being done to regulate this practice.
“I have been utterly appalled by some of the stories I have heard.”
Mr Austin said he had been approached by a number of people in the area complaining about how clampers operated.
He said it was vital the situation was looked into for the benefit of residents. Mr Austin said: “One gentleman was charged over £600 to release his car. “Residents have been intimidated and the prices they have been charged are extortionate. I am grateful to Keith for coming to Dudley to meet local people and hear their experiences first hand. I will do everything I can to get an inquiry into these companies and the way they operate. I really believe that the way some of our townspeople have been treated is disgraceful.”
A crown court judge criticised the lack of regulation nationwide in the clamping industry earlier this year.
Judge Simon Tonking jailed Rebecca Meakin for four years at Stafford Crown Court for extorting money from unsuspecting motorists in Rugeley, Cannock and Worcester. It was alleged at court the mother-of-one made £1,000 a day from the business.
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