Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged tougher action to tackle the growing epidemic of tool theft across the UK, promising a significant boost to neighbourhood policing and support for tougher sentencing. With tradespeople increasingly targeted by criminals, the government is taking new steps to protect the livelihoods of those who build and maintain the nation.

Tool theft has become one of the most pressing concerns for tradespeople in the UK, with more than 44,500 incidents reported in 2023 alone—amounting to one theft every 12 minutes. In response to rising public and industry pressure, Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the issue in the House of Commons this week, committing to a significant increase in local police presence and tougher justice reforms.

Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North and a vocal advocate for tradespeople, used the Commons session to call for more stringent penalties and official recognition of the real-world costs of tool theft. “These are not just tools, they are livelihoods,” she said. “I’ve been campaigning for tougher sentencing and action on tool theft, and for the real cost of this crime to be recognised.”

Starmer praised Martin’s leadership on the issue, noting her successful efforts to raise national awareness and the direct impact on small businesses and families. “The theft of tools isn’t just a violation, it can mean thousands of pounds of work lost,” Starmer said. “It devastates businesses, delays projects, and hurts families.”

Major Investment in Neighbourhood Policing

To combat these crimes, the Prime Minister announced an additional £1.2 billion investment into policing, including the recruitment of 13,000 new neighbourhood officers. These officers will focus on crimes that directly impact communities, such as tool and vehicle theft.

The move is part of the government’s new Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which aims to restore visible police presence and improve public trust in law enforcement. According to a recent government release, this guarantee will ensure that every community has a named, contactable neighbourhood officer (gov.uk).

A Legislative Push: The Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill

Martin has also introduced the Theft of Tools of Trade (Sentencing) Bill, which aims to establish tougher sentencing for those convicted of stealing work tools. Currently awaiting its second reading in Parliament, the bill is gaining traction, with industry groups such as Checkatrade and On The Tools backing the measure. Insurer Blip has also supported victims with expedited claims and financial aid (bills.parliament.uk, amandamartin.org.uk).

The need for reform is underscored by research from On The Tools, which shows 86% of tradespeople worry about theft daily, and over half report anxiety and stress due to the risk of losing their essential equipment (itv.com).

A Turning Point for Tradespeople?

As the UK government prepares to review sentencing laws, the success of Martin’s bill could represent a turning point in how tool theft is prosecuted. For many tradespeople, it's a welcome change.

“After years of underreporting and under-policing, this shows we are finally being taken seriously,” said one tradesperson at the recent Trades United tool theft rally in Westminster.

With the support of Parliament, industry leaders, and law enforcement, the hope is that new policies will bring an end to the wave of tool thefts—and restore peace of mind to those who keep Britain running.

Sources:

Interested in a future in the electrical or construction trades?

If you're considering a career change or looking to enhance your existing skills, now is the perfect time to take the initiative and enrol with Optima Electrical Training. With the availability of interest-free payment plans, it's easier than ever to get started.

Contact us today to embark on your training journey.

Contact us: Request Information

Email: info@optima-ect.com

Freephone +44 800 0371572

Learn more