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01/12/2003
New anti-begging measures come into force
Begging, already a criminal offence, will from today be a recordable offence as part of the government's drive to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
The change will help tackle the anti-social behaviour of some "aggressive beggars", which can intimidate the public, leading to increased fear of crime, the Home Office said.
Government research shows that two-thirds of people resent being approached by people begging for money and more than half of the public will not use a cash machine with a beggar next to it.
It will also allow the police to identify repeat offenders and make it easier for them to deal with beggars involved in more serious crime, the offender's details will now be stored on the National Police Computer when they are arrested.
The Minister for Policing and Crime Reduction, Hazel Blears, said: "The public do not want to see beggars on our street, many of whom can be aggressive and intimidating. Tackling begging is part of the government's strategy to cut the anti-social behaviour which can blight communities and makes some of our public spaces no-go areas."
The Home Office claimed that more than 85% of beggars have a drugs or alcohol addiction and are begging to fund their habits.
The Vagrancy Act 1824 made begging in a public place an arrestable offence and upon conviction a person may be sentenced to a maximum £1000 fine.
(gmcg)
The change will help tackle the anti-social behaviour of some "aggressive beggars", which can intimidate the public, leading to increased fear of crime, the Home Office said.
Government research shows that two-thirds of people resent being approached by people begging for money and more than half of the public will not use a cash machine with a beggar next to it.
It will also allow the police to identify repeat offenders and make it easier for them to deal with beggars involved in more serious crime, the offender's details will now be stored on the National Police Computer when they are arrested.
The Minister for Policing and Crime Reduction, Hazel Blears, said: "The public do not want to see beggars on our street, many of whom can be aggressive and intimidating. Tackling begging is part of the government's strategy to cut the anti-social behaviour which can blight communities and makes some of our public spaces no-go areas."
The Home Office claimed that more than 85% of beggars have a drugs or alcohol addiction and are begging to fund their habits.
The Vagrancy Act 1824 made begging in a public place an arrestable offence and upon conviction a person may be sentenced to a maximum £1000 fine.
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
