Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government how many penalties have been issued for driving with non-compliant number plates in each of the past three years; and what plans they have to strengthen enforcement.

The Government recognises the impact of number plate fraud and non- compliance, including the potential harm it can cause. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is committed to working with partners including the National Police Chiefs’ Council and other government departments to improve the identification and enforcement of number plate crime.

Information on the number of penalties issued for driving with non-compliant plates is not held by the DVLA. Penalties are typically issued as part of on-road enforcement by the police.

The government published its new Road Safety Strategy on 7 January, setting out its vision for a safer future on our roads for all. As part of this, the Department for Transport is reviewing motoring offences and has published a consultation which seeks views on the introduction of penalty points and vehicle seizure for the offence of being in charge of a motor vehicle with an incorrect/altered/false number plate. Following this consultation, consideration will be given to whether legislative changes are required.

The DVLA is also considering options to ensure a more robust, auditable Register of Number Plate Supplier process which would enable tighter checks on number plate suppliers. This includes reviewing the joining fee, scheme structure, resources, and funding.

DVLA enforcement officers also work with the police and Trading Standards to conduct compliance visits to number plate suppliers, inspecting practices and records as necessary.