Stephen
Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has welcomed a new law
which will reform the scrap metal industry and tackle the problems of metal
theft.
The Scrap Metal Dealers Bill was taken through Parliament by a
Conservative MP with support from the Government and this week passed its final
stage in the House of Lords.
It will
reform the outdated rules governing the scrap metal industry, creating a
tougher, locally administered, licence regime. It will help the honest dealers
who do the right thing, but it contains strong powers to stop the trade in
stolen metal. For the first time it gives the police and local authorities the
power to close down unlicensed dealers.
Welcoming
the new powers, Mr Metcalfe, who has previously raised the issue on the floor
of the House of Commons, said: “Metal theft is a scourge. Stolen power cables
mean power cuts and delays on the railway, while stolen lead from church roofs
and memorial plaques cause great upset and offense.”
“Local
people in South Basildon and East Thurrock will be pleased that this new law,
which the Conservatives have taken through Parliament, will reform the whole
scrap metal industry and tighten the net around the dodgy dealers.”
