Trades United has announced it will be hosting its second van rally to raise awareness and pressure the government for stricter laws on tool theft on Monday, 3 February 2025 in Parliament Square, Westminster.
The organisation, and peaceful protesters, will be calling on the government to enforce stricter penalties for thieves and those selling stolen tools, provide better funding for law enforcement to tackle the crime and protect tradespeople’s livelihoods by updating outdated laws.
The rally will begin with a “go-slow” van convoy from Brent Cross at 11:00 AM and arrive in Westminster by 12:00 PM.
The first rally took place on 3 June 2024 after Trades United’s founder Shoaib Awan launched a petition in April, which garnered 46,000 signatures calling for the government to address the escalating tool theft crisis by banning the sale of tools at car boot sales and other markets.
Tradespeople are now being encouraged to join the event and make their voices heard.
Shoaib said: “On 3 February 2025 I will bring tradespeople across the country together once again at Parliament Square for the new government to see the distress these thieves and car boot sales have cause to their livelihoods. Tool theft numbers are rising year on year and not enough from the government has been done to protect the trades. A crime reference number is not acceptable. We don’t want policies that work, we need strict enforcement and a crackdown operation with immediate effect.
“It’s distressing how widespread tool theft has become, impacting not only the livelihoods but also mental well-being and family stability. The lack of effective intervention from law enforcement only exacerbates the problem. Businesses suffer not only from the loss of tools but also from the subsequent financial burdens such as increased insurance costs and repairs. It’s essential for communities, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies to work together to address this epidemic and provide support for those affected.”
