Moves to make profiting from scrap metal theft more difficult welcomed by County Council

Central Government plans to deter scrap thieves have been welcomed by Worcestershire County Council, which has had more than £100,000 worth of metal stolen during the last 12 months.

Criminals have made off with around 650 manhole and gully covers since the start of 2011 putting people at risk and costing the taxpayer.

Home Secretary, Theresa May, announced yesterday (January 26) changes are set to be introduced to make buying scrap metal for cash illegal and to increase fines for those breaking the law.

Cllr John Smith OBE, County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, has welcomed the measures.

Cllr Smith said: "We all know that the vast majority of people are law-abiding but, unfortunately, a small minority of law breakers have been putting public safety at risk and costing the taxpayer by stealing the manhole and gulley covers on Worcestershire's highways.

"There have been many mindless and irresponsible thefts over the last few months, including some when covers have been taken off the road leaving gaping holes on the highways. It really isn't an exaggeration to say this could have resulted in innocent people being seriously injured or even losing their lives.

"Anything that may deter these criminals can only be a good thing. I welcome these measures and would also ask anyone who spots anything suspicious to get in touch with the police to report the incident."