Bailiff Laws Could Put Those In Debt At Greater Risk

Proposals for changes to the law on bailiffs could put those in debt at increased risk, according to Citizens Advice. The charity has warned that vulnerable people could be targeted as a result of a new bill including measures to give extra powers to all bailiffs. These include allowing bailiffs to force entry into premises and to enforce unpaid debts, whereas currently only certain bailiffs have this power. Chief executive of Citizens Advice David Harker commented: “Our evidence over many years shows that bailiffs have an appalling track record of abusing their existing powers against vulnerable people. They are often abusive and aggressive and use threats of violence and prison to pressurise people into paying lump sums they cannot afford.” Consumers who are concerned about their outstanding repayments to creditors might wish to take on debt management plans, which could potentially reduce debts by up to 75 per cent.

7 March 2007 | Debt Help, General Finance | Comments