Andy Burnham, the UK prime minister, has announced new rules for private car parks designed to reduce what he called "rip-off" parking fines. The rules will apply across England, Scotland and Wales.
Under the new code of practice for the industry, drivers will receive a guaranteed five-minute grace period to decide whether to park. After their parking session ends, drivers will have 10 minutes before they can be fined for overstaying.
Burnham framed the move as part of a broader effort to address the cost of living and deliver what he described as "fairer" consumer protections. He positioned it among what he called a series of "everyday fixes" aimed at easing financial pressure on ordinary people.
The code represents an official framework governing private car park operators, who have faced criticism over penalty charges that consumer groups argue can be excessive and unfairly applied. The specific grace periods and protections outlined by Burnham mark an attempt to standardise practices across the private parking sector.
No further details about enforcement mechanisms, penalties for non-compliance, or the process for developing this code were provided in the available information.