Data (Use and Access) Bill [HL]
The Data (Use and Access) Bill [HL] is scheduled to have its second reading in the House of Commons on 12 February 2025.
![Data (Use and Access) Bill [HL]](https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/content/uploads/2025/02/AdobeStock_169483439-568x320.jpeg)
This Note describes the law on wheel clamping on public roads and the legal position of clamping on private land. As this is a devolved issue in Scotland it deals with England and Wales only.
Parking: wheel clamping (127 KB , PDF)
This Note describes the law on wheel clamping on public roads and the legal position of clamping on private land. As this is a devolved issue in Scotland it deals with England and Wales only.
The legality of wheel clamping on public land is clearly set out in legislation and there are rules regarding signage and enforcement including the maximum amount of fine that can be charged and the circumstances in which vehicles can be clamped.
At present on private land, including car parks, clamping is by and large unregulated (except where undertaken by or on behalf of a public agency such as the DVLA). As a result there has been considerable controversy about the behaviour of private wheel clamping companies and even about the legality of clamping vehicles on private land.
The Labour Government legislated to introduce a proper licensing system for private clamping companies, but this did not cover things like signage and amount of fines to be charged. Labour did pass legislation on these latter matters but it was not commenced before the 2010 General Election.
The Coalition Government took office stating that it would ban clamping on private land in England and Wales. This was legislated for in the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. Indications are that the ban will come into force before the end of 2012 and will be accompanied by new rules regarding the enforcement of parking tickets on private land.
Parking: wheel clamping (127 KB , PDF)
The Data (Use and Access) Bill [HL] is scheduled to have its second reading in the House of Commons on 12 February 2025.
A Westminster Hall debate on road safety for young drivers is scheduled for Tuesday 28 January 2025, from 9:30am to 11:00am. The debate will be led by Julia Buckley MP (Labour, Shrewsbury).
A Westminster Hall debate on transport links between Scotland and the rest of the UK will be held on Wednesday 8 January 2025, from 2:30 to 4:00pm. The debate will be led by John Lamont MP (Conservative, Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk).