Oral Answers to Questions

Craig Whittaker Excerpts

Monday 12th December 2011 Commons Chamber

[Mr Adam Holloway (Gravesham) (Con)]

11. What steps she is taking to tackle metal theft.

[Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley) (Con)]

12. What steps she is taking to tackle metal theft.

[Nadine Dorries (Mid Bedfordshire) (Con)]

17. What steps she is taking to tackle metal theft.

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[James Brokenshire]

I certainly recognise the impact that metal theft has on our communities, with the estimated cost ranging anywhere between £220 million and £777 million per annum. We underline and recognise the seriousness attached to metal theft, which is why we are seeking to establish a new taskforce better to inform intelligence and ensure that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice.

[Craig Whittaker]

Calder Valley private and social landlords have reported to me the rising number of instances of houses in between tenancies being totally ripped apart—including water pipes, gas pipes and, indeed, electric wiring—causing thousands of pounds worth of damage. Does the Minister agree with me that the time has come for legislation to clamp down on rogue metal dealers who trade in such items?

[James Brokenshire]

The Government do not legislate lightly and have undertaken a range of work to tackle metal theft through non-legislative means. However, we have now reached the stage where the only conclusion is that new legislation is needed to tackle metal theft. We are therefore in discussion with other Departments to agree on the most appropriate option for bringing these changes forward.

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[Nick Herbert]

I have just replied to the right hon. Gentleman. I have spoken to the acting chairman of the IPCC about the matter and the investigation, and he has assured me about the investigation’s integrity. We therefore see no reason at the moment to order any review. It is important that the investigation takes its course properly.

[Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley) (Con)]

T7. Will the Minister explain what she is doing to ensure that the families of missing people get the help and support they need when a loved one goes missing?

[The Minister for Equalities (Lynne Featherstone)]

We have published the new missing children and adults strategy, which has three important provisions. The first of these is prevention and reducing the number of people who go missing in the first place. The second is protection and reducing the harm to those who do go missing. The third is provision—providing support and advice to missing persons and their families by referring them promptly to agencies and ensuring that they understand how and where to access help.