PRIME Minister Theresa May has ordered Health Secretary Matt Hancock to look into a deal between Smart Parking and the NHS.

Property management company MJ Mapp has taken back control of Westgate Car Park in Basildon from Smart Parking UK, shutting down all ticket machines.

Stephen Metcalfe, Tory MP for Basildon and East Thurrock speaking in the House of Commons, said: “Earlier this week, the owners of the Westgate shopping centre in Basildon terminated Smart Parking’s contract after a disastrous nine months of operation.

"I have now discovered that Smart Parking has signed a shared business services agreement with the NHS.

"May I ask my right hon. Friend to ensure that, before any contracts are signed, the Department of Health and Social Care fully researches the impact that the practices of Smart Parking would have on its users, customers, clients and staff?”

Mrs May promised the “important issue” would be investigated.

Smart Parking has defended its record at the car park despite thousands of complaints.

A spokesman for Smart Parking said: “During 2018, Smart Parking introduced an automatic number plate recognition system, linked to pay and display machines at Westgate Car Park in Basildon.

“This system was introduced to manage the site in a fair and effective manner and to address systemic abuse at the car park.

“Having been audited on several occasion the site was operating correctly and within regulated guidelines.

“Indeed, results thus far have shown increased numbers of motorists utilising the facility, with a vast proportion of users doing so without any issue whatsoever.

“Unfortunately, the current owners of the site have now asked that we cease operations and as such, we are reviewing our options with a view to defining our next steps.