Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Tool Theft (Prevention)

27 April 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Greg Smith Con Mid Buckinghamshire

Crime & Law EnforcementEmployment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Greg Smith raised concerns about tool theft (prevention) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Tool theft is at crisis levels in the UK, with over half of builders reporting incidents.
  • Roofers, electricians, and plumbers are among the hardest hit by tool theft.
  • Over 83 million worth of tools were stolen in England and Wales over three years.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Greg Smith Con Mid Buckinghamshire

Tool theft is at a crisis point in the UK, with over half of builders experiencing tool theft. Roofers have been hit hardest, followed by electricians and plumbers. More than £83 million-worth of tools were stolen in England and Wales over three years. Tool theft from vans occurs on average every 20 minutes, causing significant financial and mental health impacts on tradespeople. Barry Phipps, a constituent who has lost over £40,000-worth of tools, exemplifies the devastating effects. The Bill aims to require individuals selling second-hand tools online to show serial numbers in searchable advertisement text, helping prevent criminals from monetising stolen items.

Other contributors (1)
  • Greg Smith Con Mid Buckinghamshire

    Tool theft is at a crisis point with over half of builders affected. The average value of a reported stolen item is £385, and the most common loss stands at £2,500 in a single theft. Serial numbers would help prevent criminals from monetising stolen tools online.

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