Norwich MP welcomes measures to tackle metal theft menace
January 26, 2012 3:03 PM
Simon Wright, MP for Norwich South, has welcomed news that the Government is changing the law in a bid to tackle the increasing problem of metal theft.
Mr Wright: "The laws surrounding the trade of scrap metal are out of date and unable to stand up to the growing problem of metal theft. I'm pleased that the coalition Government will ban cash payments for scrap metal trading, and introduce fiercer punishments for dealers that commit offences.
"I've been lobbying Ministers to take action and I'm pleased that progress is now being made. Cable theft from railways alone disrupted over 35,000 national rail services over the last financial year. It represents a massive drain on resources and can pose a real danger to rail passengers.
"But it is not just cable theft; infrastructure, art installations, memorials and property across the country have been targeted by people looking to make quick money. This is costing the UK nearly £800m a year.
"Transactions are often made without proof of ID or proper, verifiable records being kept. This has to stop.
"The new measures announced send a clear message that tackling metal theft is a priority, and scrap metal dealers have an important role in bringing it to an end."
The full Home Office statement can be found here:
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