MP SEEKS ACTION  TO STOP SUPERMARKETS GETTING DRIVERS’ NAMES

Angus MP, Mike Weir, has urged the UK Government to stop the DVLA supplying supermarkets with personal details of drivers who overstay in car parks. He has lodged an amendment to a parliamentary motion on control of government data to urge that the DVLA do not supply data on motorists to supermarkets and others who operate private car parks.

Mr Weir believes it is wrong of Government department to pass on driver’s details for supermarkets to then threaten court action to collect private fines. 

“I have received a number of complaints from constituents throughout Angus after receiving fine demands from Lidl supermarket in Arbroath.

“I was surprised to find out that the DVLA had passed on the drivers’ personal details to the supermarket.  Surely it is up to the supermarket to act against

over-stayers without DVLA involvement?

“At a time when UK Governmental departments have been embroiled in data loss scandals, I am deeply concerned that the DVLA would divulge personal details so easily.  

“While the DVLA believe there is reasonable cause to supply this information, there is no statutory definition of “reasonable cause”. All drivers in the UK are obliged to give their details to the DVLA for very good reasons. That information should, however, be used only  for the purpose for which it is supplied and to enable the operators of private car parks to pursue motorists.”