Vagrancy Act Repeal 2023-05-22
2023-05-22
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from a long-standing campaign to repeal an outdated law and replace it with modern legislation. The issue was raised in both Houses of Parliament over a year ago.
What progress has been made on repealing the Vagrancy Act 1824? More than a year ago, we agreed in votes across both Houses to repeal this act, yet there seems to be an attempt by the Home Office to reintroduce it for handling aggressive begging. The homeless need assistance, not arrest. When will the new legislation be enacted?
The Government is committed to repealing the Vagrancy Act as soon as suitable replacement legislation is ready. This will happen when parliamentary time allows, ensuring that people who are homeless receive help rather than arrest, while also addressing aggressive begging issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for introducing and enacting new legislation was not provided
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Following an initial question, further details are sought regarding the legislative timeline and objectives for repealing this act.
More than a year ago in both Houses of Parliament, we agreed to repeal the 1824 Vagrancy Act. Yet it seems as if aggressive begging is being addressed by reintroducing elements of this law. People who are street homeless need help, not arrest. When will the enactment of new legislation occur?
We will repeal the Vagrancy Act once suitable replacement legislation is ready. This ensures that people who are homeless receive assistance rather than arrest, while also protecting members of the public from aggressive or nuisance begging.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for enactment was not provided
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Homelessness is a significant issue across the United Kingdom, and there are efforts to address it through legislative reform.
What discussions have taken place with the Northern Ireland Executive regarding the Vagrancy Act 1824? The Minister understands the issue well. How can we ensure that improvements in England also benefit people in Northern Ireland?
Discussions will occur once the Northern Ireland Executive is reformed. We aim to bring about similar results in reducing rough sleeping as seen in England, where homelessness levels are 35% lower than in 2017.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details on current or planned discussions were not provided
Response accuracy