Push to regulate UK bailiffs too slow, warns supervisory body
Summary
The UK government has delayed making rules to control bailiffs who collect debts from people. The Enforcement Conduct Board, which monitors bailiffs, says many companies are still not following fair rules and calls for the government to act faster.Key Facts
- The bailiff industry in the UK collects over £1 billion each year from debts like unpaid fines and council tax.
- More than 7 million cases are sent to bailiffs annually, affecting many people.
- Currently, enforcement firms are not legally required to be regulated or follow the standards of the Enforcement Conduct Board (ECB).
- Some bailiff companies refuse to sign up to the ECB’s rules or oversight.
- Complaints include aggressive behaviour, overcharging, and unfair treatment such as clamping vehicles used by disabled people.
- The government announced plans for mandatory regulation in June 2025 but has made little visible progress a year later.
- Consumer groups, debt charities, and many in the bailiff industry support legal regulation to protect people in debt.
- The Ministry of Justice says it is working on proposals to ensure fair treatment and will announce next steps soon.
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