Before the October recess, Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser met with the newly installed Transport Minister, Michael Matheson MSP, to discuss plans to regulate the private parking industry.
Murdo is currently progressing plans to introduce tougher rules for private parking providers but these will require support from Government in order to become law.
During a wide-ranging discussion, the Scottish Government indicated that they would be willing to roll Murdo’s plans into the Transport Bill which is currently making its way through parliament.
The Minister also indicated that the Parking Code of Conduct Bill which is progressing at Westminster could also influence what action is taken in Scotland.
Murdo believes that the meeting was a positive first step in seeing his plans become reality.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“My meeting with Michael Matheson was very productive and I was pleased to hear the Cabinet Secretary take such a keen interest in the problems motorists face when parking in private parking facilities.
“The good news is that cleaning up the rules, creating uniform conditions, maximum penalties and an independent appeals service has the support of the Scottish Government and it’s just a case of how best to proceed.
“Sir Greg Knight’s Bill at Westminster covers Scotland but it remains to be seen how this will link with the law here.
“The Scottish Government’s Transport Bill offers the quickest route to seeing these plans become reality and I have indicated to the Cabinet Secretary that I would like to see my proposals end up in the bill. Ultimately, what matters most is getting the best deal for parkers.
“I look forward to engaging with the Government over the coming months in order to end the raw deal many parkers currently face.”