Thieves who steal tools from builders’ vans in Rochdale will face longer jail sentences in a major crackdown following campaigning by MP Paul Waugh.
The new Sentencing Bill will ensure judges have to take into account that skilled tradespeople don’t just lose expensive equipment, they lose their whole livelihood when their vehicles are broken into.
Mr Waugh was a key backer of a 10 minute rule bill that called for changes to the law to better protect plumbers, carpenters, electricians and others in the building trade.
Now ministers have announced that the new legislation will transform outcomes for victims through several key measures:
Enhanced Victim Protection: Judges will now be required to consider the full impact on victims – including mental health, lost earnings and business disruption – when sentencing. This reflects Paul’s demand that the law treat tool theft as an attack on a worker’s ability to earn, not a minor property crime.
Stronger Community Controls: New powers will enable probation services to impose restriction zones to keep prolific offenders away from building sites, retailers, and areas where tools are stored or used.
Robust Community Sentences: Offenders will face stronger restrictions on freedoms such as driving, drinking in pubs, or attending events – ensuring that community sentences have real bite.
Tackling Repeat Offending: Expansion of Intensive Supervision Courts will focus on repeat offenders who target multiple tradespeople across wide areas.
Paul Waugh MP said:
“This is a huge victory for the hardworking tradespeople of Rochdale and across Britain. I’ve been campaigning for the law to come down harder on criminals who steal the tools people need to make a living. I’m proud that Labour’s Sentencing Bill now delivers on that demand.
“Tool theft doesn’t just take away someone’s equipment – it destroys their livelihood, puts huge strain on families, and contributes to mental health pressures in a sector already facing one of the highest suicide rates. This Bill is proof that when we fight hard enough, we can deliver real change for working people.”
Nic Dakin, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Justice, said:
“This Government is determined to take strong action to support tradespeople and punish those responsible for damaging their businesses and lives through tool theft.”
Paul has long campaigned for tougher sentences and greater recognition of the real impact of tool theft. He has maintained pressure in Parliament, worked across party lines, and engaged with industry stakeholders to push for change. Today’s announcement demonstrates that persistence has delivered results.