Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Lord Clement-Jones (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 25 February 2025. It was answered by Lord Hanson of Flint (Labour) on Tuesday, 25 February 2025 on behalf of the Home Office.

Public Spaces Protection Orders: Enforcement

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of recent research by the Manifesto Club which found that private enforcement companies now issue over 75 per cent of all penalties for breaches of public spaces protection orders on a payment-per-fine or otherwise incentivised basis; what assessment they have made of the risks associated with these arrangements; and what plans there are, if any, for the Home Office to follow DEFRA in introducing guidance that prohibits incentivised enforcement action.

Answer

It is for local authorities to determine how to operate the powers granted to them in legislation.

Contracting enforcement to third parties is a common arrangement and it is for the local authority to ensure use of powers remains just and proportionate.

Contractors are bound by the same legal obligations, and the same safeguards in legislation, as councils themselves. Local authorities are also obliged to follow the rules set out in the Public Contract Regulations 2015 in appointment of such companies.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL4920
Session
2024-26
Related items
Subjects
Enforcement Fixed penalties Private sector Public spaces protection orders
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk