To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what steps the Government plan to take to address illegal street trading. (232815)

Government have no plans at this time to make changes to the legislation governing street traders.

Local authorities already have powers to designate which of their streets are prohibited to street trading, which require street trading licenses and which require consents. Unlawful trading is an offence punishable by a fine of up to £1,000, and a street trading licence may be revoked if its terms are breached. Some local authorities have also sought further powers to seize goods through private legislation.

In addition, Trading Standards have existing and extensive powers to tackle trading in dangerous or counterfeit goods.

However, Government are currently conducting a Review of Street Trading and Pedlary to see if further changes to the national legislative framework are needed. The Department has commissioned research from the University of Durham and this is due to conclude in November. We hope to be in a position to publish the final report and a Government statement on next steps early in the new year.