Overview

This bill aims to regulate the use of "anti-loitering devices"—devices emitting high-frequency sounds to disperse people—in England and Wales. It makes operating such a device without a license from the local authority an offense, punishable by a fine.

Description

The Anti-Loitering Devices (Regulation) Bill introduces a licensing system for devices designed to disperse people using sounds at 8kHz or higher.

Licensing

The Secretary of State will create regulations outlining the licensing process, considering public need, safety, and the impact on residents. Local authorities will be responsible for issuing licenses.

Offenses

Using an anti-loitering device without a license is a punishable offense, with fines capped at level 3 on the standard scale.

Regulations

Regulations under the Act must be made via statutory instrument and approved by both Houses of Parliament.

Geographic Scope

The bill applies only to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The costs will likely be associated with the creation and implementation of the licensing regulations and enforcement of the new laws. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Responsible for issuing licenses and enforcing the law, incurring administrative costs.
• Businesses/Individuals using anti-loitering devices: Will need to obtain licenses to legally operate such devices. Failure to comply could lead to fines.
• Residents: Potentially affected by the noise from these devices, although the licensing process aims to mitigate this.

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