Transport Minister's proposals a triumph of hope over experience
While it welcomes the Minister's decision to appoint independent adjudicators with the power to revoke fines when motorists have been treated unfairly, the FPB is doubtful whether guidance will be enough to persuade local authorities to change their ways over parking enforcement. "I seriously doubt that local authorities will suddenly perform a u-turn and begin painting over yellow lines; indeed, the excuse of reducing congestion may be the signal for them to paint a few more," said Brian Morris, the FPB's Press Officer. "Who will adjudicate whether changes to parking arrangements are to improve safety and reduce congestion, or whether the main aim is to raise more revenue?" Mr Morris said the FPB, which represents 25,000 smaller businesses across the UK, would like to see more car parking facilities in city and town centres and improvements in public transport: "Tinkering with existing parking schemes is unlikely to benefit our members much", said Mr Morris. However, he welcomed the appointment of independent adjudicators, pointing out that many motorists who incurred penalties over parking felt they had been treated unfairly.