Christopher Pincher Backs the Government’s Tough Penalties for Metal Theft

Theresa May, the Home Secretary, announced this week that cash payments for scrap metal will be banned and penalties increased, as the Government steps up its action against metal theft.

In a statement to Parliament Mrs May said the Government would:

• create a new criminal offence to prohibit cash payments when purchasing scrap metal
• introduce unlimited penalties for those that break the law

In November last year the Government announced that a dedicated metal theft taskforce would be established.

These changes are part of a wider plan to tackle all stages in the illegal trading of stolen scrap metal and further measures to crack down on rogue dealers will soon be outlined.

Commenting on the announcement local MP Christopher Pincher said, “People across Tamworth are disgusted by metal thieves and the criminals who deal in stolen metal.  Our local churches have been attacked by these criminals costing our local parishes thousands.

“St Paul’s church in Fazeley has been stripped of its lead and copper conductors on at least two occasions leaving it vulnerable to fire if lightening strikes.  Cable theft from train-tracks is costing residents in train fare increases and more frequent delays.

‘We need to protect business, the public and our national heritage from metal theft and that’s why I’m pleased to back the Government’s action.  It’s right that the Government is stopping cash payments and introducing tough penalties to clamp down on the illegal metal trade.”