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Abandoned Vehicles: Public Highways
12 July 2023
Lead MP
Robbie Moore
Keighley and Ilkley
Con
Responding Minister
Trudy Harrison
Tags
Local Government
Word Count: 4041
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Robbie Moore raised concerns about abandoned vehicles: public highways in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
Moore asks the Government to review legislation to toughen penalties on businesses parking abandoned vehicles for spare parts and to increase fines for using public highways for business purposes. He also requests the Minister to look at regulations allowing local authorities to charge higher removal costs to reclaim expenses from vehicle owners.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Robbie Moore is concerned about abandoned vehicles on public highways in Keighley, which cause frustration to residents and businesses. He cited examples of vehicles without number plates or parts missing that have been left for weeks, months, or years. One business reported delivery lorries unable to enter due to abandoned vehicles. The issue extends beyond Keighley and has been a problem across the Bradford district.
Government Response
Trudy Harrison
Government Response
The Minister highlighted that Bradford had the highest number of abandoned car reports outside London between 2020 and 2022, citing specific issues in Keighley. She mentioned the Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act of 1978, which allows local authorities to take action against abandoned vehicles with penalties up to £2,500 or three months in prison. The minister also touched on producer responsibility for end-of-life vehicles and praised local initiatives like the Utley safer streets group.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.