TOUGH new powers to seize illegally operated heavy goods vehicles across East Lancashire have come into force.
The regulations give the Vehicle Inspectorate powers to impound HGVs on the road without a licence.
The new laws, announced by Transport Minister John Spellar, have been welcomed by the industry.
Mr Spellar said: "These powers will be used to target the small core of operators running a haulage business without an operator's licence who are a serious risk to other road users."
Chief Executive of the Lancashire Freight Transport Association, Richard Turner said: "We welcome this important step in strengthening safety and professional standards in road transport. There must be no place for the illegal operator in our industry."
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