MP supports efforts to curb metal theft
John Baron MP has signed an Early Day motion in the Houses of Parliament, calling on the Government to introduce legislation that will grant greater powers to police and the courts in investigating and prosecuting those suspected of metal theft.
John said:
“The existing Scrap Metal Dealers Act is nearly 50 years old and no longer fit for purpose. Metal thieves have become bolder, targeting signalling cables, gas pipes, and copper wire, as well as attacking war memorials, statues and lead and copper roofing on schools and churches.”
“The cost of metal theft to the UK economy is estimated to be around £770 million a year. These attacks on our infrastructure cannot continue, and offenders must be given more than just a slap on the wrist.”
Ends
Word Count: 143
Date: 1st December 2011
Notes to Editors
The EDM (2130A1) can be found here: http://www.parliament.uk/edm/2010-12/2130
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