Glasgow Shettleston’s MSP, John Mason, has welcomed the Scottish Government’s consultation on tackling metal theft.  Mr Mason’s praise for the consultation follows his calls in 2011 for new legislation to tackle metal theft.  The SNP MSP called for action following a spate of vandalism in 2011 at local Churches in the East End.

John Mason welcomed the Scottish Government’s proposed action, particularly emphasis on outlawing cash sales of lead and metal.

East End MSP, John Mason, said:

“Metal theft is a big problem, so I am delighted to see the Government is heeding our calls for action and pressing forward with the consultation.

“I have been in tenement closes recently where even the brass edging on the stairs has been dug out to be sold. That might be at the less serious end of the scale but stealing the copper from railway signalling equipment is potentially catastrophic.”

“Churches like St John’s have seen, first hand, the damage – physical and financial – caused by metal theft, therefore any action is to be welcomed.  The consultation is also an opportunity for everyone to contribute their thoughts and ideas, be it charities, organisations, Churches and small businesses.  It’s important we get the changes to legislation right to stamp out this kind of behaviour”.

Andrew Richardson, Minister at St John’s Episcopal Church in Baillieston welcomed the news too.  He said:

“I very much welcome the consultation and I think it is a good idea, it is well timed and I am sure it will be welcomed by many agencies.”