Posted 4/1/2024, 3:02:27 PM
Sunak Faces Backlash Over Plan to Criminalize Homelessness
- Rishi Sunak facing major Tory rebellion over plans to criminalize homelessness in new Criminal Justice Bill
- Bill would give police powers to fine or jail homeless people for "nuisance rough sleeping"
- Tory MP Bob Blackman leading rebellion, says bill "completely unacceptable" as it criminalizes people with no choice but to sleep on streets
- Homelessness charities like Crisis and Shelter strongly oppose bill, say it is "cruel and counterproductive" and does not address root causes
- Government spokesperson defends plans, says goal is to "end rough sleeping" while allowing authorities to address behavior that makes public "feel unsafe"