UK Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has highlighted concerns over aspects of the proposed Criminal Justice Bill, particularly its potential to criminalise homelessness through actions deemed a “nuisance,” such as “excessive” smells. This legislation aims to replace the Vagrancy Act of 1824, which currently criminalises begging and rough sleeping. Keegan underscored the importance of not arresting homeless individuals based solely on their smell, emphasizing the need for support to help them off the streets and focusing on aggressive or disruptive behavior rather than the mere act of sleeping rough.

The debate within the Commons has revealed divisions, with over 40 Conservative MPs poised to vote against the proposals, which critics fear could unjustly target homeless people for behaviour like causing excessive noise or smells. Tory MP Bob Blackman has suggested an amendment to ensure that issued guidance balances community safety with addressing the reasons people beg or sleep rough.

The government, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and No. 10, supports Keegan’s stance, advocating for a measure that protects the public from harassment while treating homelessness with compassion. Calls for a more compassionate approach to homelessness come from across the political spectrum and non-governmental organizations like Crisis, pressing the government to reconsider the proposed measures.

The discussions signal a complex legislative journey ahead, aiming to find a balanced approach that addresses both public safety concerns and the need to support homeless individuals transitioning off the streets.