Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

DoT is bigget user of private investigators

Sunday 11 August 1996 18:02 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

The Department of Transport is the Government's heaviest user of private detectives and investigation companies, according to figures collated by a Labour MP.

Last year it spent pounds 477,000 on investigators - and pounds 344,000 the year before - in seeking evidence for "possible legal proceedings" against trespassers on roadbuilding sites, and for processing legal documents. It also spent pounds 373,000 last year on serving summons for unlicensed vehicle use, and in debt collection in such cases, according to a reply to a parliamentary question from Brian Donohoe, MP for Cunninghame South. "The question must be asked whether this is a proper use of public money, or whether sensitive inquiries of this nature should be dealt with through other public agencies," Mr Donohoe said.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in