Andy Burnham outlines new rules to outlaw ‘rip-off’ private parking fines

{"heading":"The New Private Parking Code of Practice","subheading":"Key Points of the New Rules","paragraph_1":"The new private parking code of practice, due to be laid in parliament, includes several key changes to protect consumers from unfair charges.","paragraph_2":"Drivers will now have a guaranteed five minutes to decide whether to park and an additional ten minutes to leave after their session ends, ensuring they have sufficient time to make a decision.","paragraph_3":"The government has also introduced a maximum fine of £50 for honest mistakes, such as forgetting to display a parking permit or entering the wrong vehicle's registration number.","paragraph_4":"The new code of practice also includes the cancellation of parking charges in all mitigating circumstances, such as a medical emergency or vehicle breakdown.","paragraph_5":"However, the government has not implemented a maximum fine of £50, which campaigners had called for, and has not established an independent appeals body to address industry practices.","paragraph_6":"Additionally, the government has promised to consult on private parking debt recovery fees, which are currently capped at £70, to determine whether they should be cut or scrapped altogether.","paragraph_7":"The new rules are part of a series of 'everyday fixes' to improve the cost of living for UK residents, including measures to reduce the number of parking fines issued and improve the treatment of consumers by private parking firms."}