Liberal Democrat MP Joshua Reynolds is calling for targeted security grants for independent retailers to combat shoplifting.
Reynolds raised the issue in Parliament this week, proposing that the grants cover investment costs for next-generation AI CCTV so retailers have better imagery to share with police.
“Every time we visit shops in our constituencies, we will hear the same things about shoplifting having effectively been decriminalised,” said Reynolds during the debate.
“Thieves do not face the consequences because there are no consequences, and shoplifting has risen in England and Wales over the last five years.
“Retail crime offences are not minor offences to people running these businesses – they are haemorrhaging money.
“The government could make available grants for every independent convenience store, covering some of that cost and working with high street lenders. This is not just our idea but is supported by the Federation of Independent Retailers.”
Reynolds has previously backed the Federation of Independent Retailers’ long-running campaign for government support on fighting retail crime.
The Fed’s national president Hetal Patel said: “I am greatly encouraged that Joshua continues to work closely with the Fed to ensure the voice of all independent retailers is heard in Parliament, particularly on the massive impact of retail crime.
“We look forward to meeting with him again in the near future and we continue to work with MPs across Westminster to highlight the impact of this problem.”
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