Tough new sanctions for War Memorial metal theft

Local MP, Andrew George, has welcomed tough new penalties which are being brought in to crack down on those who steal or sell stolen metal; especially from war memorials.

Liberal Democrat Crime Prevention Minister, Jeremy Browne, has announced that from next month new powers will take effect to stop cash paid for metal and will give police stronger powers to target rogue traders.

Mr George said: “As we come up to Remembrance Sunday, we are reminded of all the selfless sacrifices made by members of our Armed Forces. We remember the fallen from both World Wars and more recent conflicts, right up to the present day.

“We are all angered when we hear about war memorial desecration by metal thieves who just want to make a quick buck out of the nation’s respect for the dead.

“The Coalition Government is doing the right thing in backing further measures to crack down on this disgraceful crime by tackling scrap metal theft.

“It’s not just the public that want a crackdown. Law abiding scrap metal traders are especially anxious to have the rogues run out of business.”

Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Crime Prevention Minister, Jeremy Browne said: “These thieves show an utter disregard for the memory of the courageous men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

“The Coalition Government is determined to stamp out this illegal trade, which in recent years has cast a shadow over Remembrance Sunday for bereaved families.

“That is why we are reforming the scrap metal industry to support legitimate dealers and tighten the net around those who flout the rules.”