Cars without tax could be towed away and crushed

The latest enforcement phase is part of a Scotland wide initiative spearheaded by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).

Officers from Strathclyde and Lothian and Borders Police started carrying out roadside checks on Wednesday.

A freephone hotline, (08000 325 202) is also now open so the public can report road tax cheats.

The DVLA mobile wheel clamping units are also now on the look out for anyone not displaying a valid tax disc.

We are determined to catch them and deal with them accordingly Chief Inspector Alan Baird

Vehicles found without a valid tax disc will be clamped and could be impounded and crushed by the DVLA.

Chief Inspector Pat Docherty, of Strathclyde's road policing department, said: "I would urge car users to check that their vehicles are properly licensed and insured.

"Throughout our two-week crackdown we will also be checking vehicles to ensure that they are road safe and road-side checks will be carried out throughout the Strathclyde force area."

Chief Inspector Alan Baird, from Lothian and Border's Traffic Branch, added: "Our officers will be carrying out roadside checks to spot offenders and also detect unlicensed vehicles and motorists committing other road traffic offences such as no MOT certificate and no insurance.

"A huge amount of revenue is lost each year as a result of non-compliance. Often those without road tax are found to be committing other offences such as driving without proper insurance and MOT certificates.

"These offenders make the roads less safe for others and we are determined to catch them and deal with them accordingly."