Cherished number transfer Act passes into law

An Act of Parliament that will simplify the process of buying and keeping a cherished number plate for a vehicle has received royal assent and has passed into law, thanks to ongoing support by the Cherished Number Dealers Association, a part of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF).

The Vehicle Registration Marks Act became law yesterday evening (Thursday 19 July 2007). It had been backed by the CNDA, as well as the Government, and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The Police were also supportive, as it will greatly reduce the potential for fraud.

Richard Ottaway MP (Croydon South), who originally presented the Bill, commented: ‘It is a great achievement for the CNDA to have helped get a Private Members Bill successfully through Parliament.’

Robert Wicken, CNDA chairman commented: ‘Now the Act has passed into law, consumers and cherished number dealers will get a process that provides more choice and flexibility.’

The Act will lead to a new regime where the keeper can grant retention rights directly to the purchaser. For most transactions this will make the process simpler. It will also prevent consumers from being deliberately conned. The outgoing regime makes it possible for bogus sales to take place, where the seller takes the buyer’s money but never provides the plate, or the documentation to renew the retention certificate.