I am sure everyone was shocked and dismayed to hear the press reports (see here) about the theft of lead from St. John's Church in Grove over the Easter weekend. The photos above were taken on Easter Monday.
Sadly, this is one of many such incidents and metal thefts from church roofs, cemetries, railway cables, manholes covers, etc., which now seem to be reported on an almost daily basis in the national press. These incidents are crimes against society as well as pure theft. So what can be done and why have the authorities been so powerless to stop this increasing problem?
An interesting House of Commons report appeared recently (see here), which discussed the issues, preventative measures (like SmartWater) and the proposals to reform legislation. The changes include (1) making it an offence for dealers to pay cash for scrap, (2) giving the police new powers to enter scrap yards, and (3) increasing the fines for offences. However, some concern has been expressed by many people and organisations such as the British Metals Recycling Organisation (BMRA) about an exemption for itinerant sellers (such as rag and bone men). I understand the Bill was passed in the Commons on 17 April - but will it be enough?
An interesting House of Commons report appeared recently (see here), which discussed the issues, preventative measures (like SmartWater) and the proposals to reform legislation. The changes include (1) making it an offence for dealers to pay cash for scrap, (2) giving the police new powers to enter scrap yards, and (3) increasing the fines for offences. However, some concern has been expressed by many people and organisations such as the British Metals Recycling Organisation (BMRA) about an exemption for itinerant sellers (such as rag and bone men). I understand the Bill was passed in the Commons on 17 April - but will it be enough?
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