Congestion Charging

Clone Zone

Mar 7 2003
Exclusive By Transport Reporter Oscar Mortali

South London Press

NUMBER plates are being pinched from cars by crafty crooks - to dodge paying the congestion charge.

It seems registration plates are the new currency in the capital since the introduction of Ken Livingstone's fiver-a-day fee nearly three weeks ago.

Pilfered plates are being fixed to vehicles which are then driven freely into the zone, which includes Kennington and Elephant and Castle.

When Ken's cameras nab the car, the £80 fine is sent to the address the number plate is registered to.

The new scam - known as cloning - was revealed by furious readers who phoned the South London Press congestion charge rant line this week.

One of those callers, Michael Parkes, said: "I know of three people who have had their number plates stolen already. I'd like to know if Mr Livingstone is going to do anything about this."

Motoring organisation the AA says it is aware of the new crimewave sweeping through the capital. Spokeswoman Rebecca Rees revealed an Essex-based AA colleague - who has not driven into London for FIVE YEARS - has already had three fines through the post since her number plates were swiped.

She said: "It's known as 'cloning' and is something becoming more and more apparent as the weeks go on.

"We do not have any official figures yet to back this up and at this moment.

"We don't know how big a problem it is yet, or what to expect, but it will grow unless something is done."

Transport for London says the theft of plates "is a police matter".

A spokesman said: "Clearly, if it does happen, it should be reported to the police."

He added: "As far as the congestion charge is concerned, if a penalty charge notice is received and you have not been into the zone, there is a form attached for representations to be made.

"Clearly a police reference number would help in this case."

A police spokesman urged victims to report number plate theft immediately.

He said: "Driving with somebody else's number plates is an extremely serious matter."

Don't forget the South London Press congestion charge rant line: 0901 380 1810. Calls cost no more than 25p

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