31/05/2006

'Thief-proof' number plates launched

The government has launched new 'thief-proof' number plates in a bid to clamp down on the theft of car number plates.

The Department of Transport said that the new plates could not be prised off in less than three minutes and would break into prices after they were removed, rendering them unusable.

The plates are expected to cost around £20 and will be available from the autumn.

Criminals often steal number plates in order to 'clone' stolen cars for resale or to avoid paying fines or congestion charges or paying for petrol.

Number plate theft is increasing, with police records suggesting that more than 33,000 were stolen in 2004.

(KMcA)

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