Why aren't UK drivers forced to display their insurance status on their windscreens?

I was shocked to discover the number of uninsured drivers in the UK. In France every driver has to display their current insurance on their windscreen. Is this not possible here, or am I missing something?

Asked on 10 June 2012 by RB, Gillingham, Dorset

Answered by Honest John
Yes. ANPR checks are run in seconds from every police patrol car on every vehicle it passes either way. An ANPR check instantly identifies uninsured cars. Drivers are pulled over and their cars are immobilised on the spot. They then face quite heavy fines and the possibility of having their car permanently confiscated. So what would be the point of a windscreen sticker when the people who would check them can check automatically from the numberplates of the cars?
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