Motorists could be spared charges if they enter a private car park but leave as it is full or too expensive, MPs have heard.
Local government minister Simon Clarke replied it would “make good sense” when asked if a 10-minute grace period should be allowed in such circumstances before someone has bought a ticket.
The Government has previously committed to ensuring private parking firms give motorists a 10-minute grace period after their tickets expire as part of moves to target “rogue” car parks.
Mr Clarke confirmed the new code of practice is expected to be developed this year and the first draft has been completed.
A public consultation is planned before the code is finalised.
Speaking during an adjournment debate, Conservative former minister Caroline Nokes told the minister: “He was very specific then about a 10-minute grace period after a ticket had expired.
“Will it also include a 10-minute grace period in the circumstance that he himself identified where somebody perhaps drives into a car park and finds there are no spaces or that it’s too expensive?”
Mr Clarke replied: “I confess given the code is in draft I don’t know the answer to that question but I will write to her to clarify.
“I suspect it would make good sense for it to do so in practice, but I will not presume to prejudge what the independent regulation may eventually come up with.”
