Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, with reference to the Anti-social behaviour action plan, published on 27 March 2023, whether her Department plans to take steps to avoid the criminalisation of rough sleeping.

The Government is clear that no one should be criminalised simply for having nowhere to live.  We have already embarked on a strategy to end rough sleeping with a focus on prevention and multi-agency support for vulnerable individuals, backed by £2 billion over three years.

However, there are some instances of behaviour by those begging or sleeping rough that can cause harm or distress to the individuals and the wider public. Where this happens the Government wants to ensure police forces and local authorities are given the tools to direct vulnerable individuals into support where appropriate and help the public feel safe.

We will continue to engage with stakeholders on these complex issues, before separate legislation is brought forward at the earliest parliamentary opportunity.