THE government is looking at introducing new laws cracking down on car clampers.

Home Secretary Michael Howard has told the BEN that he is actively considering legislation to step the activities of firms who unscrupulously immobilise vehicles without proper reason.

But he stressed that action was not imminent as there were considerable "difficulties" in framing legislation in this complex area.

Mr Howard said:"We are actively considering legislation on car clamping but we have nothing ready at present."

Bolton's new Liberal Democrat MP Peter Thurnham welcomed the news but condemned the Government for dithering over the issue for months.

He said: "I think this is long overdue.

"There have been considerable problems in Bolton. People have been grossly inconvenienced to say the least.

"This is a racket where people face demands for huge sums of money or their car will be towed off to a pound somewhere.

"I have written to the Government on this issue. It is high time something was done urgently.

Rossendale and Darwen MP Janet Anderson said: "I welcome this development. It is a very serious problem in the North-west.

"We need urgent action and Mr Howard must move quickly in this area."

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