LGA urges MPs to support scrap metal reforms

Councils are calling for MPs from across the political spectrum to back proposed legislation to overhaul the scrap metal trade ahead of a vote on Friday (July 13).

Croydon South MP Richard Ottaway has been given government backing for his Private Members Bill which seeks to update the 1964 Scrap Metal Dealers Act, which has been described by Home Office minister Lord Henley as not fit for purpose.

And, the LGA is keen to see political parties form a consensus to ensure that the measures make progress when the Bill has its second reading in parliament on Friday.

Councillor Mehboob Khan, chairman of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: “This mindless crime is spiralling out of control and has cost councils millions of pounds in having to replace memorial plaques, manhole covers, metal gullies, children’s playground equipment, street signs and lead from schools, council offices and crematoriums.

“MPs will all be aware of the damage, disruption and heartaches metal thefts have caused in their areas. The legislation for regulating the scrap metal industry has long ceased to be fit for purpose and we can’t afford for Parliament to stall any longer on bringing it up to date.

“Whatever their political party, councils from across the country will be looking to MPs this Friday to take forward this bill to help introduce proper regulation of the scrapyards where much of this stolen metal ends up.”

Proposals

A draft copy of the Bill, published last week, sets out a number of measures to combat metal theft which include making local authorities responsible for issuing a licence to trade in scrap metal, and will examine any relevant criminal record that applicants may have, as well as previous licensing applications.

Meanwhile, the Environment Agency will be responsible for maintaining a register of all licensed scrap dealers in the UK, which will be made publicly available. The Bill will also make it a legal requirement for photo-identity to be produced at the point of sale of scrap.

Last week Mr Ottaway visited metal recyclers FJ Church and Sons in Rainham, Essex and EMR in Erith to discuss his proposals with members of the industry.

Speaking on Friday (July 6) Mr Ottaway said: The visit today has been very beneficial. I am keen to work with the British Metals Recycling Association and others affected by the Bill to ensure it achieves its aims whilst helping businesses to thrive.

Whilst the proposed reforms of the Scrap Metal Dealers Act will not eradicate metal theft altogether, it will make it harder for thieves to dispose of stolen metal, and those operating outside of the law will face tougher punishment, unlimited fees and the threat of losing their licence.