MP Claire Ward has welcomed a Government promise to get tough on so-called cowboy clampers.

The proposed Crime and Security Bill, announced in the Queen’s Speech yesterday (Wednesday), will introduce a tough new compulsorily regulatory system for all wheel clamping businesses.

As the law stands in England and Wales, so-called vehicle immobilisers need only to be registered with the Security Industries Authority (SIA) and must follow only a voluntary code of practice.

This much derided arrangement that can lead to unlimited penalties and leaves appeals to be decided by the clampers themselves.

The bill, if passed in the next Parliament, will implement an open and fair appeals system and a limit on release fees.

Ms Ward said: “This is great news for motorists. Time and again constituents have contacted me after being targeted by these unscrupulous firms who sometimes charge hundreds of pounds in release fees.

“I of course support the right of private land owners to take action against illegal parking.

“However, a transparent licensing regime is vital in order to prevent the kind of cowboy outfits who unfortunately currently operate in the local area."

The Watford Observer has, in recent years, reported on numerous clamping controversies after complaints from readers.

Have you been a victim of cowboy clampers? Let us know my making a comment below.