Written question asked by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Thursday, 19 October 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 October 2006. It was answered by Tony McNulty (Labour) on Thursday, 26 October 2006 on behalf of the Home Office.

Car Boot Sales

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what his Department’s estimate is of the proportion of crime associated with car boot sales; and what steps he is taking to counteract such crime.

Answer: No estimates have been made of the proportion of crime associated with car boot sales.Although we are aware that many people greatly enjoy attending car boot fairs, they are one of the places used by criminals to profit from crime. A number of enforcement agencies including the police and trading standards routinely act to tackle crime at car boot sales, just as in other areas, but we recognise that it can be difficult to assert consumer and other rights, in such informal channels.In recognition of those difficulties, the Government are seeking to amend the Enterprise Act to enable public authorities to disclose information for civil proceedings. This will enhance the protection of Intellectual Property Rights and redress for consumer harm.We are also proposing to consult widely on how best to work with traders in second hand goods to disrupt markets for stolen goods. That consultation will also seek views on how best to work with the organisers of occasional sales such car boot fairs to reduce the opportunities for criminals to benefit from attending such events.

Secondary information