Interim ASBOs are being introduced
to provide more immediate protection from anti-social behaviour, to take
effect pending the substantive application for an ASBO.
Allan Wilson also backed an extension
of the power to apply for ASBOs and interim ASBOs to Registered Social
Landlords (RSLs), including Cunninghame Housing Association. This
will make it easier for Cunninghame Housing Association to obtain ASBOs
and prevent further anti-social conduct in and around their properties.
The Executive supported a new duty
to oblige the police and councils to exchange information and work together
to tackle anti-social behaviour. Local authorities and the police
will prepare a strategy, to be made public, for dealing with anti-social
behaviour.
Allan Wilson said:
"I know how much misery so called
‘neighbours from hell’ can cause people locally. It is one of the
most common problems I am consulted about. That is why Anti-Social
Behaviour Orders are essential to Labour’s vision of making communities
safer. Ongoing, persistent anti-social behaviour, which reduces the quality
of life and causes distress in our communities, is not acceptable.
"I know how much disruptive neighbours
can affect lives. It is a fundamental right for people to feel safe in
their homes and walk the streets without fear. The new measures that will
be introduced by the legislation will send out a powerful message that
we will not tolerate irresponsible and unacceptable behaviour.
Allan Wilson continued:
"We are building on the package of
measures which are already addressing local concerns, such as probationary
tenancies and the suspension of the right to buy, neighbourhood wardens
and our work on youth crime. Together, these measures will send out the
clear message that unacceptable behaviour in our communities will not be
tolerated.”
Notes
ASBOs came into force in April 1999.
Interim ASBOs will allow for the full range of sanctions to be available
to a court ranging from a fine to up to five years in prison. Local authorities,
in consultation with the police, can apply to the sheriff court.
RSLs will be able to ask for ASBOs
against not only their own tenants, but also for other people in the vicinity
whose behaviour will impact on RSL tenants.
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