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Vagrancy Act 1824

Asked by Wendy MortonConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 14 July 2026UIN 15983

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what guidance has been issued to police forces and local authorities following repeal of the Vagrancy Act; whether additional funding has been allocated to support implementation; and whether Ministers received advice on potential operational risks or unintended consequences.

Answered by Alison McGovern

The government has introduced targeted replacement measures alongside repeal of the Vagrancy Act 1824 to ensure there are no gaps in powers available to protect community safety. The Home Office has issued information on the commencement of those measures and will update statutory guidance on the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to provide greater clarity on how relevant powers can be used in different circumstances. On the question of funding, I refer the Rt hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 14018 on 7 July 2026.

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