THE launch of tough new security measures at hundreds of car parks across Britain coupled with a major crackdown on used car vehicle crime are two of the key issues of a Home Office-inspired Vehicle Crime Reduction Action Team headed by Ford fleet operations director Mike Wear. The 12-strong team has been split into eight task groups with this week Wear putting security improvements at car parks through the use of closed circuit television and other measures and a major awareness campaign for vehicle owners top of his 'action list'.

The continuing attack on vehicle crime comes as the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has defended the car makers' record of improving vehicle security against criticism in the House of Commons, although it said that to 'mark' every part of a car which could be stolen would slow vehicle production and could double car prices. Andrew Reed, Labour MP for Loughborough, told the House there was a perception among the public there was a general lack of interest in security within the industry.

The Government has set a target of reducing the incidence of car crime by 30%. But industry insiders say this will be achieved naturally as newer cars with improved security features take the place of older less secure models. VCRAT meets quarterly and, in addition, Wear has regular meetings with Home Office Ministers and Home Secretary Jack Straw as he leads the Government's fight to cut the UK's annual £3 billion vehicle crime bill by 30% over the next five years. The eight task groups are: Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency issues and secure number plates, secured car parks, used car security, new car security, salvage industry, police best practice, vehicle crime data and carriage of vehicle documents.