POLICE should have more powers to tackle the increasing number of illegal traveller encampments in Basingstoke.
That’s the call from town MP Maria Miller after a 20per cent increase over the past 12 years that has put an extra burden on the tax payer.
Maria wants to see a situation similar to the Republic of Ireland, where police have the power to move on travellers rather than having to go through the courts – a more lengthy process.
She said: “There has been an unacceptable 20per cent increase in the number of illegal traveller and gypsy encampments in Basingstoke over the past year.
“All too often, these camps are on verges and on open land in residential areas, creating considerable problems for residents until the encampment is moved on.
“Then there are mounting expenses for council tax payers who have to foot the bill for legal costs and the clean-up.
“I am concerned that some gypsies and travellers can take advantage of planning and human rights laws to avoid eviction from land on which they have no permission to camp.
“I think a change in the law is long over due to better protect ordinary residents.
“I would like to see a new criminal offence of ‘intentional trespass’ similar to laws in place in the Republic of Ireland to give the police the power to arrest trespassers who refused to move on after being asked to do so by a uniformed officer.
“At present, unless there is criminal damage, trespass is treated as a civil offence, and landowners are forced to go to court to remove encampments, creating delay and extra cost.
“Basingstoke residents have had enough – all I want to see is fair play.”
