Date: Monday, 20th January 2025
Trades United, a leading campaign group for tradespeople, is set to lead a second van rally in Westminster on Monday, 3rd February 2025. The rally will start at Brent Cross and conclude at Parliament Square, Westminster, with an estimated arrival time of 11:45-12:00 PM.
The purpose of the rally is to raise awareness about the increasing issue of tool theft and the resale of stolen goods. Tradespeople from all over the UK will unite in London to demand stricter enforcement of existing theft laws, particularly those concerning tool theft.
This is the second van rally organized by Trades United, following the success of the initial rally on 3rd June 2024. The demonstration aims to draw attention to the inadequate enforcement of laws that threaten the livelihoods of thousands across the UK. The event also aims to amplify the call for stronger deterrents against thieves and more effective measures to combat the sale of stolen tools.
During the rally, participants will stage a ‘go-slow’ convoy in Westminster, driving through the area for two hours to raise awareness. The previous rally gained significant traction within the trade community, fostering partnerships with organizations like SelectaDNA and the Metropolitan Police. As a result, mass tool-marking events have been initiated to assist in returning stolen tools to their rightful owners and convicting offenders.
Founder of Trades United, Shoaib Awan, previously launched a petition (#659019) in April 2024, calling for the government to address the escalating tool theft crisis by banning the sale of tools at car boots and markets. Although the petition was closed due to the dissolution of Parliament on 30th May 2024, it garnered over 46,000 signatures, reflecting the widespread concern within the trade industry. Awan continues to encourage support for this critical cause, urging MPs and their parties to prioritize this issue.
Trades United seeks to hold the government accountable for protecting tradespeople and ensuring the enforcement of laws designed to safeguard the broader community. With growing industry support, this rally aims to compel policymakers to address the root causes of tool theft and deliver the urgent reforms required.
The Theft Act 1968 outlines severe penalties for handling stolen goods, including up to 14 years of imprisonment upon conviction. However, the lack of sufficient police funding and resources has hindered effective enforcement, leaving tradespeople vulnerable to escalating theft.
Trades United calls on the government to take decisive action by increasing funding for law enforcement, in particular, specialist crime personnel and frontline officers, prioritizing motor vehicle crimes including theft from and theft of. This will enable police to enforce existing laws efficiently and effectively. They also urge for a revision of the Theft Act 1968 Section 27 (3) a/b, handling stolen goods, to update the time frame from 5 years to 5 years since a previous conviction and found to have been handling stolen goods in the last 5 years to facilitate with being able to charge repeat criminals for the offenses more effectively. Additionally, they call for the revision of the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023 to include all power tools or produce an alternative legislation to cover the theft of power tools, as well as the consideration of tool theft as an aggravated offense.
Tradespeople and supporters are encouraged to participate in this critical event and make their voices heard. Together, they can advocate for the protection of livelihoods and demand meaningful change.
Founder of Trades United, Shoaib Awan, expressed his thoughts on the rally, stating, “On the 3rd February 2025, I will bring tradespeople across the country together once again at Parliament Square for the new Government to see the distress thieves have caused to their livelihoods. Tool theft numbers are rising year on year, and not enough is being done by the Government to protect the trades. A crime reference number is not acceptable. We don’t want policies that don’t work; we need strict enforcement and a crackdown operation with immediate effect.”
Awan also highlighted the impact of tool theft on not only livelihoods but also mental well-being and family stability. He emphasized the need for effective intervention from law enforcement to address the problem. He concluded by stating the significant financial burdens businesses face due to tool theft, such as increased insurance costs and repairs. He urged communities, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies to work together to address this epidemic and provide support for those affected.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.