MP's shoplift bill 'talked out'

Anne McIntosh said shopkeepeers would be disappointed

A Tory MP has accused the government of failing to back her bill on tackling the £1bn-a-year cost of shoplifting.

Ann McIntosh said ministers had ensured her bill was "talked out", by spending too much time debating earlier bills on the agenda.

The measure now stands little chance of becoming law.

"Retailers will be disappointed at government's cavalier disregard for their losses due to the huge cost of shop theft," the Vale of York MP said.

"In supporting the bill, the government would have recognised the severity of shop theft, particularly caused by persistent and repeat offenders.

"By allowing ministers to talk out the two earlier bills on autism and pensions for war widows, the government has badly let down retailers, storekeepers, large and small, and the many other victims of retail crime.

"I know they will share my disappointment at the government's failure to support this bill."

The measure would have ensured fixed penalty notices - which had had little effect in curbing shoplifting - could be used only when dealing with first-time offenders.

For those people who had shoplifted before, they would be brought before the courts where custodial sentences could be imposed.