§ Earl Russellasked Her Majesty's Government:
What consequences they expect from any attempt to enforce the prosecution of beggars. [HL3950]
§ Baroness Scotland of AsthalFrom the end of July this year, begging will be included as a trigger offence under the criminal justice interventions programme. This will mean that those charged with begging will be drug tested and will enhance their opportunities for the underlying causes of their behaviour to be addressed and to root out repeat offending by offering treatment.
We need to ensure that we address the underlying causes of those who beg. If we help those who beg because of drug use to get access to effective treatment we help them, help communities and help those intimidated by begging. Better use of enforcement powers and alternative giving schemes will help to address the underlying and immediate problems.