Scrap metal bill at risk of stalling

A Government-backed Bill to end the scourge of metal theft, which has seen war memorials stripped and the transport and telecommunications networks crippled, is under threat of collapse.

Put forward to the Commons in a Private Member’s Bill by Conservative MP Richard Ottoway, the Scrap Metal Dealers Bill is in danger of falling foul of Commons procedure despite its widespread public support.

The Bill has passed its second reading and committee stages but there is concern that some MPs may talk the Bill out today as it faces a report stage in the Commons, meaning it could not proceed to the Lords.

It would also provide new powers for police to raid and close rogue scrap metal yards and a strict licensing regime aimed at ensuring that anyone selling the scrap must provide proof of identity are central to the measure, which has cross-party backing.

A range of businesses, including Calor Gas, BT, Network Rail, as well as the Church of England, have demanded action to stop the theft of metal.

For the full story from localgov.co.uk, click here

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