The Government under Andy Burnham is considering introducing tougher penalties for number plate offences, including larger fines and penalty points on driving licences, according to police and campaigners who have called for a crackdown on the growing problem.
The move comes as new figures reveal a significant surge in number plate theft and cloning, with thousands of incidents reported across the country. Law enforcement officials say the issue has become a major concern, as vehicles fitted with false or modified plates—often referred to as 'ghost plates'—are effectively invisible to speed cameras and ANPR technology.
Surge in Number Plate Offences
DVLA data shows that 7,381 stolen plate incidents were recorded last year, a 30% jump from the 5,683 reported the previous year and more than double the 3,376 thefts reported in 2021. Cloning incidents have also risen sharply, with reports increasing by 53% over the same period, from 7,430 incidents in 2021 to 11,394 last year.
These offences allow drivers to evade detection by authorities, enabling them to break road rules and move around unseen. In some cases, innocent motorists receive speeding tickets and prosecution notices when their number plates are stolen and used on other vehicles.
Call for Tougher Deterrents
MPs and road safety campaigners argue that the current penalties are insufficient to deter offenders. They have called for a much tougher approach, including larger fines and the addition of penalty points on licences. The Government is now set to consider these options following a consultation on the issue.
According to police chiefs, the proliferation of ghost plates is undermining the effectiveness of automated enforcement systems, which rely on clear and accurate number plate recognition. This not only allows offenders to escape punishment but also places an unfair burden on law-abiding drivers.
Expert Advice for Motorists
In the meantime, experts are advising drivers to take simple precautions to protect their number plates. Fitting anti-tamper screws, which cost as little as £2.50, is recommended as an effective deterrent against theft.
Neil Atkinson, owner of Carrosserie, said: "Number plate theft is a serious and growing problem, and many motorists don't realise how vulnerable they are. What makes it particularly worrying is that innocent drivers end up paying the price for crimes committed with their stolen plates."
The issue has also been highlighted by the DVLA, which has urged motorists to report any suspicious activity involving their number plates immediately. The agency is working with police forces across the country to tackle the rise in offences.
Government Response
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said: "We are aware of the concerns raised about number plate offences and are carefully considering the responses to our recent consultation. We are committed to ensuring our roads are safe and that enforcement measures are effective."
The consultation, which closed earlier this year, sought views on a range of measures, including increased penalties and improved enforcement mechanisms. The Government is expected to announce its decision in the coming months.
In the meantime, drivers are reminded to regularly check their number plates for signs of tampering and to report any lost or stolen plates to the police and the DVLA immediately. Failure to do so could result in unwarranted fines or prosecution.
