Published: 23 March 2007
New safeguards for householders in Bailiffs Bill
New safeguards to protect householders in disputes over debts have been announced today by Constitutional Affairs minister Vera Baird.
She has pledged bailiffs will not be given powers to enter domestic premises until a strict new licensing regime comes into effect.
Vera Baird said:
"For too long there has been confusion about the rights of bailiffs and the rights of householders.
This is especially important as we are often talking about some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
That's why we decided to bring in a range of safeguards to raise the professional standards of bailiffs and protect the public.
Concerns have rightly been expressed about the right of bailiffs to force entry to people's homes.
We have always said forced entry can only be used as a last resort and when all other avenues have been exhausted.
I'm happy to announce this power will not come into force until those bailiffs who are not Crown employees are licensed by an independent regulator.
This will help to further protect the public."
The new safeguard is one of a range of measures in the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Bill designed to protect domestic householders.
The new power of forced entry will, it is claimed, only be available in strictly controlled circumstances, and with prior approval by a judge.
It will only apply to unpaid credit card debts where a judgment has been obtained in the High Court or County Court and only if all other payment methods - including instalment plans - have failed.
Further information
DCA - Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Bill
Related article: Tribunals, Court and Enforcement Bill
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