§ 3. Mr. Ian BruceTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what proposals his Department has to change the law to prevent the fraudulent re-chipping of mobile phones.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Technology (Mr. Edward Leigh)I am not persuaded that a change in the law is necessary.
§ Mr. Ian BruceI declare an interest as an adviser to the Telecommunication Manufacturers Association and as an owner of one of those terrible machines that are likely to be stolen. I am sure that my hon. Friend knows of the growing prevalence of telephones being stolen and adapted for fraudulent use, which has come to the attention of not only the industry and users but even the House authorities, because a large number of telephones have been stolen from this place. Will my hon. Friend meet a delegation from the industry and of others concerned, and think again about improving the law to stop the fraudulent changing of mobile phones?
§ Mr. LeighMy hon. Friend speaks with great knowledge of that subject, and I should be happy to meet a delegation led by him. Our legal advice is that there are adequate powers available under the Theft Act 1978 to prosecute, and further powers available under section 42 of the Telecommunications Act 1987. We are not convinced that further legislation is necessary in this instance.