VOSA new powers

[echo]

Saw this in action today on the A34 - a blue/yellow liveried van with a light bar on top showing orange lights and a variable message sign stopping traffic :eek: not a blue light or PC in sight :yikes:

And I thought it was only PCs that could stop you :confused:

From the VOSA site:
"Thames Valley is the latest Police force to accredit officers from VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) with the power to stop lorries, buses and coaches for spot-checks.

In the past, police have always been present during spot-checks, as only they had the authority to stop vehicles. This new power to stop commercial vehicles and private motorists will increase VOSA’s effectiveness and flexibility in targeting vehicles which are likely to break roadworthiness and traffic legislation."

http://www.vosa.gov.uk/vosa/newsevents/newsreleases/26-07-05vosausepowertostopinthamesvalley.htm

[kevin ritson]

And how easy are these guys to spot (sorry, too lazy to read up)? I wouldn't get out of my car for anyone not clearly from the Police.

[paulhol]

i certainly wouldnt know to stop for anything without blue lights

[echo]

kevin ritson said:

And how easy are these guys to spot (sorry, too lazy to read up)?

Ford Galaxies with Battenburgs all over and a big orange light bar.

kevin ritson said:

I wouldn't get out of my car for anyone not clearly from the Police.

Thats what I was getting at - who would?

[Terminator]

It's true ...

VOSA - Stop

[7db]

They do have powers to stop vehicles (as do a number of non-plod) -- however, if you are asked to stop by anyone who is not a uniformed police officer, and doubt their authority, call the police and check, or drive to a police station.

[7db]

They are the people in the kebab shop late on in the evening.

[streaky]

7db said:

They do have powers to stop vehicles (as do a number of non-plod) -- however, if you are asked to stop by anyone who is not a uniformed police officer, and doubt their authority, call the police and check, or drive to a police station.

But do remember to use ahands-free, or switch off the engine, remove the key from the ignition, step out of the car, and then use your cell-phone. Yeah! Right! - Streaky

PS - how long before VOSA have the right to shoot motorists for failing to stop? - S

[catso]

anonymous said:

[redacted]

Trafpol on the cheap I suppose.

More likely just mobile Tax Collectors

[cross-eyed-twit]

I would never stop and neither will my wife or kids for anyone other than a Police officer. Too easy for someone to impersonate and then we are trouble. If there is a problem with this legally, fine. See whoever in court.
I respect the law enforcers but sorry, I can't extend that to some Govt appointed QUANGO. Too risky IMO



>> Edited by cross-eyed-twit on Friday 26th August 00:41