WIREDGOV

As part of our committment to tackle crime, the Home Office recognises metal theft as a serious problem, and is working with other departments and law enforcement on co-ordinated action to tackle it.

The new multi-agency taskforce, led by the British Transport Police, will target both metal thieves and scrap metal dealers who trade in stolen goods and fuel the demand.

Disrupt criminal networks

The taskforce will develop intelligence, coordinate activity and target and disrupt criminal networks - both the thieves and also the criminal market, including rogue elements of the scrap metal industry.

Crime Prevention Minister Lord Henley welcomed today's announcement: 'The Government recognises that metal theft is a serious and growing national and international problem that causes significant damage to communities, businesses, and the UK's infrastructure telecommunications, rail and power networks.'

Click here to read the Autumn Statement in full