Close loophole

6:51am Friday 29th August 2008

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It cannot be right that car traders are taking their business out on to the residential streets of Oxfordshire.

In the last few weeks, we have reported several instances of streets in Oxford and Abingdon being used by car dealers to display vehicles for sale.

No doubt, there are many other places being used similarly for the selling of cars.

Local authorities and trading standards tell us that, whatever the nuisance, there is nothing illegal in what is being done.

If that is the case, then we suggest there is a loophole in the law that needs to be closed.

Trading standards say they are monitoring these sellers to ensure that they do comply with trading laws. That cannot be easy, and one would guess it would be even harder to enforce any non-compliance with trading laws.

The actions of these traders also undermine businesses trading from proper premises. They have to pay rates and rents and ensure their properties are kept up to acceptable standards.

The nuisance caused to residents is obvious. There are few enough places to park in residential roads around Oxfordshire without them being cluttered with cars for sale.

A kebab van cannot simply park anywhere and trade. Licences are required and permissions to park in particular spots are usually granted by local authorities. Unauthorised street traders are also removed from our town and city centres.

Why should it be any different for street selling of cars? It should not be beyond the lawmakers to find a way of policing this growing practice.