The Scrap Metal Dealers Act was supposed to deprive metal thieves of an easy market by banning cash sales and insisting on much better identity checks on sellers.
Councils were empowered to do inspections of licensed dealers and to close down the unlicensed operators.
But 5 Live Investigations has discovered this isn’t happening.
In October 2018, 243 English licensing councils were asked how many licensed scrap dealers on their books had been visited to ensure the new rules were being followed. The figures revealed only a fraction had been inspected and even fewer dealers – licensed and unlicensed – had been closed down.
5 Live Investigations asked the same councils the same questions in February this year and found little improvement.
Almost 120 councils had not visited any scrap dealers in the previous 28 months and many of the others had only inspected once or twice.
A small number of councils, however, had inspected and had taken action against the rogue dealers, often in joint operations with the police.
Part of the problem is that thousands of scrap dealers simply chose to drop out of the licensing scheme when the Scrap Metal Dealers Act came into force.
Many of those, says the industry, are now those dealers that advertise on the internet and buy catalytic converters with no questions asked.
Councils have limited powers
Nesil Caliskan, of the Local Government Association, said the Scrap Metal Dealers Act had contributed to a drop in metal thefts, but said they were on the increase again in part because of rising metal prices.
“Councils are targeting their limited resources as efficiently as possible and can take enforcement action where issues are identified,” she said.
“Councils have limited powers to tackle unlicensed operators and the LGA has called on government to introduce greater enforcement powers to help local authorities tackle rogue operators.”
The Home Office said the act was still a powerful tool for the police and local authorities, but said it would continue to work with the police and industry to see what more can be done to stop the thefts.
Nottinghamshire Police say drivers can do some things to protect their cars:
•If you can, park your vehicle in a locked garage when it is unattended.
•If that is not possible, park your vehicle in a busy, well-lit area as close to your property as possible.
•Consider installing a Thatcham-approved alarm to your vehicle. Ones that activate if your vehicle is lifted or tilted are particularly effective.
•Use a converters unlimited protection device or marking system.