Pendle MP Gordon Prentice has given the thumbs up to measures coming in this year to regulate the bailiff industry. Action is being taken to require tougher checks on who can be a bailiff and to clear up what they can and can’t do.

Speaking from Westminster  the MP said: “Regulation of bailiffs is an important part of protecting householders in disputes over debts and fines. Creditors have a right to recover debts, but no one should be intimidated or bullied.”

“Over the next six months, minimum training requirements are being introduced, together with the requirement for all bailiffs to provide a Criminal Records Bureau check in order to be certificated. And people will be able to check a bailiff’s certification status through an online register. This will provide clarity for debtors, creditors, bailiffs and the police “

“These measures should raise the level of professionalism among bailiffs by ensuring they are trained and know their legal limits. They will act as an important protection for people in Pendle facing economic difficulties.”

Note to Editors
These measures will prepare the ground for long-term reform of the enforcement industry and a new code governing the activities of bailiffs.
The changes come as a result of a reassessment by the Ministry of Justice of the provisions in the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007.
Under the  Act, new legislation will ensure that bailiffs carry out their work in a transparent, fair and honest way. In particular, subject to consultation, regulations under the Act will clarify when and how a bailiff can enter somebody's premises, what goods they can and cannot seize and sell and what fees they can charge.