The regulatory body – the Security Industry Authority – will be run independently, reporting directly to Home Secretary Jack Straw.
Around 300,000 door supervisors (bouncers), wheel clampers, guards and private investigators will be vetted and licensed by the new Authority. At the same time, a voluntary 'inspected companies schemes' has also been set-up for all those firms working in the industry who can meet specified standards.
The BSIA welcomed the announcement as a major landmark for the industry, having campaigned for regulation during the past 15 years. David Cowden, chairman of the BSIA and formerly chief executive of Securicor, told SMT: "At last we will see licensing of security personnel, including security officers, managers and directors of security companies. Crucially, this license will only be issued after an individual's full criminal record has been considered, because applicants will be exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act."
Mike Welply, chief executive of JSIC, added his support for the Bill. "We believe that this regulation will pave the way for even better partnerships between the police and the private sector to reduce crime, and the fear of crime," said Welply. "JSIC is looking forward to working with all of its colleagues in developing the Bill during its passage through parliament onto the statute book."
The Bill will now go through its first reading on the floor of the House, opening it up for debate. It will then be amended and improved by Parliamentarians on its way to the monarch with a view to receiving Royal Assent.
Welply added that this is "an exciting time" for the security industry. He very much hopes that the Bill will receive a speedy passage on its way through to Royal Assent.
Bruce George MP, co-author of the book 'Private Security' and who first introduced a private members' bill on regulation in 1977, also welcomed the announcement.
He said: "I am elated that at long last a British Government is doing what virtually every other Government in the industrialised world has done. The security industry is now at an historic crossroads. I hope the challenge of regulation will lead to a much more efficient, effective and accountable industry. Addressing crime is a significant challenge for any Government, and I am very happy that the benefits of regulation have been realised to improve one of the most under-utilized resources in tackling crime."
Also included in the Queen's Speech was a Criminal Justice and Police Bill aimed at modernising law enforcement.
Source
SMT
