Minister proposes legal regulation of bailiffs
Jonathan Djanogly has unveiled proposals for a major legal overhaul of the bailiff industry that will clamp down on bad practices.
Justice Minister Jonathan Djanogly has unveiled proposals for a major legal overhaul of the bailiff industry that will clamp down on bad practices.
The Ministry of Justice consultation on bailiffs, which opens today, sets out how ethical activity should be enshrined in law so bailiffs can continue to enforce the payment of debts and fines.
Mr Djanogly said:
‘Too many people have experienced intrusive, expensive and stressful bailiff action and more often than not the public do not hold bailiffs in high regard, despite the fact most bailiffs carry out their work professionally.
‘We want to restore balance to the system, improve clarity for both debtors and creditors, strengthen protection for vulnerable people and ensure that individuals, business and Government are able to collect the debts they are owed - but in a way that is fair and regulated by law.’
Bailiffs play an important role in both the economy and the justice system and without them creditors would not be able to lend and courts would be less effective.
The government has already been discussing the consultation details with both the public advice sector and the bailiff industry to ensure the measures proposed are clear and workable.
Have your say in the Transforming bailiff action consultation