Vagrancy Act 1824 — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]

He thanked Nickie Aiken for calling the debate. He emphasised that homelessness is primarily a health issue rather than a housing or government fault issue, advocating for a distinction between street homeless and other categories of homelessness. He pointed out instances where begging was used to fund drug addiction and suggested preserving provisions against begging.

Congratulated Nickie Aiken for securing the debate and praised her question to the Secretary of State that led to the possibility of repealing the Vagrancy Act 1824. Emphasized the importance of addressing homelessness through causes such as private sector tenancies ending, relationship breakdowns, unemployment, addiction, and substance abuse. Highlighted increased rent arrears during the pandemic affecting up to 245,000 people who could potentially become homeless post-eviction moratorium. Praised recent legislative improvements but called for further action in reviewing existing housing legislation and supporting Housing First initiatives.

Ms Webbe criticised the Vagrancy Act for punishing vulnerable individuals who are homeless, noting that rough sleeping has increased by 141% since 2010. She highlighted concerns about recent immigration rules which could push people away from seeking support and leave them more vulnerable to exploitation. Ms Webbe also expressed dissatisfaction with the inadequate support packages during the pandemic and called for revised measurement of rough sleepers.

Congratulated the hon. Member for Cities of London and Westminster on bringing this debate to Westminster Hall, agreeing that with over 50 housing and homelessness organisations supporting scrapping the Vagrancy Act 1824, the Minister and the Government must consider alternatives.

The Vagrancy Act of 1824 is an outdated law that criminalises rough sleeping. From 2009 to 2019, Thames Valley police brought 131 proceedings under the Act alone. Moran calls for a swift repeal of the Act and urges the Government to provide a timeline for its review and eventual scrapping.

He highlighted the causes of homelessness, such as the housing crisis and welfare system issues. He mentioned that there was a 165% increase in rough sleepers due to austerity measures. In Merseyside alone, nearly 300 proceedings were brought under the Vagrancy Act in 2019. He stressed the devastating consequences of fines for homeless individuals, which can amount up to £1,000 and further push them into poverty.

Robbie Moore highlighted the issue of rough sleeping in his constituency, praising local charities such as Homeless Not Hopeless and Project 6 for their work. He welcomed the Government's £212 million support package through the rough sleeping accommodation programme but called for the repeal of the Vagrancy Act 1824, which he argued is unfit for purpose.

The MP noted the antiquated nature of the Vagrancy Act and its failure to address underlying issues such as destitution, poverty, and insecure housing. She mentioned the declining number of prosecutions under the Act but questioned whether it solves the problems it was introduced to tackle. The MP highlighted the need for a focus on prevention through secure jobs and affordable housing. I am grateful to the Minister for giving way; he is very courteous. He says that it is above his pay grade to decide whether that happens, but will he be making the case for the renters reform Bill to be in the Queen's Speech? That is really what I am asking him to commit to.