Parking fines are targeted

Magistrates at hundreds of courts will work with police to pursue people who do not pay court fines and on-the-spot penalty notices.

People who default on fines could face arrest and possible imprisonment under the measures.

Private companies will also be allowed to collect money in areas where courts have been ineffective under the scheme.

Fines are no longer written off and can be recovered more easily from an offender's pay or benefits.

'Pursue offenders'

Operation Pay-back will see hundreds of enforcement officers working at magistrates' courts.

They will identify which outstanding warrants should be executed and accompany court arrest teams.

Courts Minister Christopher Leslie said: "We take non-payment of criminal fines very seriously.

"We will vigorously pursue offenders and ensure that justice is done.

'Pay-back time'

"If they don't pay up, the next knock on the door could mean pay-back time has come."

Thirty-four magistrates' courts committees are dedicating specific resources to the campaign.

The government has spent �230,000 on a major advertising campaign warning defaulters of the crackdown.

But there is hope for defaulters in severe financial difficulties - they can repay the fine through unpaid work in the community.