A HAMPSHIRE MP is urging pensioners not to pay an £80 fee to an Internet company offering to renew their driving licence.

George Hollingbery, Tory MP for the Meon Valley, is urging older residents to ignore the company’s e-mails and renew their licence for free by visiting their local post office.

He spoke out after an 81-year-old widow paid out for a new licence, mistakenly believing her renewal document was from the DVLA.

The woman who lives in his constituency sent the money to a company called Driving Licence Application, which is believed to be based in Hong Kong. She cannot get her money back.

Mr Hollingbery has contacted Hampshire trading standards and the consumer group Which?, who are both looking into the firm and how it operates.

He said: “This company is acting just within the law. Their operation is legal, but I think most people would take the view that it’s sharp practice.

“For those over 70, a licence renewal is free and there’s absolutely no need for anyone to use a company like this when they can go to the post office.”