Mul-T-Lock has pledged its support to the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill, which has passed its first reading in Parliament. The bill seeks to elevate tool theft from a Category Three to a Category Two offence, increasing the severity of sentencing in line with the crime’s growing impact on tradespeople and the economy.
If passed, the bill would enable the courts to issue tougher penalties to offenders, recognising tool theft as a serious offence with long-term repercussions for victims. The move reflects growing pressure from the trade community, insurers and security specialists to clamp down on a crime that has seen significant increases in recent years.
Nigel Taylor, Assa Abloy Group Director and Head of Locksmiths UKI – Commercial Group said: “Tool theft is not a victimless crime. It causes real financial and emotional harm to skilled workers across the UK who rely on their tools every day to earn a living. We welcome this bill as a vital first step in strengthening sentencing policy and showing offenders that tool theft will be treated with the seriousness it deserves.”
The bill, introduced by Labour MP Amanda Martin, has gained support from thousands of tradespeople nationwide.
According to recent Direct Line survey data, Police forces around the UK recorded a tool theft on average every 21 minutes last year. Over 25,525 tool thefts were reported to police, equating to 70 tool thefts per day, with the total value of tools stolen estimated to be £40 million. This is not including loss of earnings, missed deadlines and damage to customer trust.
“Sentencing reform alone won’t solve tool theft, but it’s an essential part of a wider response,” added Nigel. “Tradespeople need to know the law is on their side – that if they take essential steps to protect themselves, there is a justice system ready to back them up. We will continue to support efforts and provide solutions that improve security on the ground and accountability in the courts.”
The company encourages tradespeople to follow the bill’s progress and share their experiences with MPs to help maintain momentum on this critical issue.
