News From Down Under!

Many of you will be familiar with our previous reports about instances of rude or potentially offensive number plates being withheld in both the UK and the USA. The reason for our interest? Well, to us, it seems that the DVLA and certain American authorities are just a little too over-cautious. Since when does SEXRXRR represent sex, drugs and rock & roll? And even if it did, would it really matter? Would the sensitive citizens of Nevada really find such a plate offensive?

Well, this time, it's the state of Victoria in Australia that finds itself hitting the number plates headlines. Governing body, VicRoads, is apparently struggling to keep rude number plates off the road, with a dozen sets of plates being recalled so far this year. Among those recalled were GSTAPO (understandable) and MURDA (again, understandable). Another plate pulled, however, was the rather fun LEGLIS (as in "legless"). OK, OK, I understand that there is the danger of impressionable drivers, on seeing this plate, heading straight to the nearest pub and getting completely sozzled before driving off under the influence because we, of course, do not have self-control. But I have the sneaking suspicion that motorists may just manage to have a giggle at the plate, appreciate its fun, and continue down the road at 30mph.

Personally, and I think I speak on behalf of many a driver out there, I think that silly number plates are one of the main reasons why personalised plates are so popular. There's nothing like a funny plate on your way to the dentist or your mother-in-law's to cheer you up! I wonder what VicRoads would make of Regtransfers' very own PEN 15, currently displayed on one of our company Smart cars?

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