SCRAP METAL THEFT

at end add `notes that the theft of metal (copper, lead etc.) is a growing problem in the UK affecting many industries (e.g. power, transportation, water and communications), with the cost to the UK economy estimated at £770 million per annum; further notes that the safety and social aspects for the public of communications cables being vandalised, gas pipes being ripped from houses, lead from churches and schools, roadway drain and manhole covers being taken, etc are immeasurable; commends industry, the British Transport Police, the ACPO and others for their work to eradicate this problem; and calls on the Government to introduce legislation to protect the UK economy from this danger by adopting a more robust regime with greater powers for the police and courts, including the investigation of suspicious activities and allowing the enforcement of proceeds of crime provisions.'.