Discounted parking fines could be handed out in Brighton and Hove for minor infringements.

A similar scheme is to be introduced in London this summer, with reductions of up to 50 per cent for those overstaying their time in pay-and-display or free bays.

If the same system is implemented in the city, parking fines could be as little as £15 but Councillor Gill Mitchell, chairwoman of the environment committee, said it was too early to say what the concession would be, adding: "We certainly feel that the way forward is for a penalty system that is proportional to the consequence of the parking offence.

"For example, illegal parking that obstructs traffic flow or affects safety would attract a higher rate of fine than just overstaying a pay-and-display bay, although illegally parking in a disabled bay could also get a higher fine.

"We are following the developments in London very closely.

"I believe there would be greater public acceptance of a system that contains an element of natural justice but it must be easy to understand and administer."

Levels of parking fines are set by the Government along with the percentage reductions for early payment and there is no indication this is set to change.

But the Government is currently reviewing its 2004 Traffic Management Act and a move towards a differential pricing system could be announced later this year.

Parking has become a contentious issue in the city, as revenue from tickets, residents' permits, vouchers and pay-and-display has increased.

This year the council is expected to gross £16 million from parking, according to figures released to The Argus - up almost £1 million on the previous year.

A consultation in London found that 89 per cent of motorists supported a move towards differential pricing and Coun Mitchell said she believed car owners in Brighton and Hove would also welcome the change.

Steve Percy, chairman of the People's Parking Protest, said: "It has got to be a good thing if tickets cost less but I think it would be fairer to give people a five-minute grace period on pay-anddisplays because people do have problems getting back in time, unfortunately.

"On a yellow line you are given five minutes and I would like to see the same for pay-and-display."

In Brighton and Hove, fines cost £60, with a 50 per cent discount for those paying within the first 14 days.