Installer campaign group group Trades United is organising a second van rally in Parliament Square to draw attention to tool theft and resale of stolen goods.

Starting from Brent Cross, tradespeople from across the UK will unite in London on February 3, to demand stricter enforcement of theft laws, particularly tool theft.

Following its initial rally on June 3 2024, the demonstration aims to amplify the call for stronger deterrents against thieves and more effective measures to combat the sale of stolen tools.

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Participants will stage a ‘go-slow’ convoy in Westminster, driving through the area for two hours to raise awareness.

The previous rally gained traction within the trade community, fostering partnerships with organisations like SelectaDNA and the Metropolitan Police, which has since initiated tool-marking events to assist in returning stolen tools to their rightful owners and convicting offenders.

Trades United, founded by Shoaib Awan, previously launched a petition (#659019) in April 2024, which called for the government to address tool theft by banning the sale of tools at car boots and markets.

While the dissolution of Parliament on May 30 2024 led to the petition’s closure, it garnered over 46,000 signatures, reflecting the concern within the trade industry.

Awan continues to encourage support for this critical cause, urging MPs and their parties to prioritise this issue.

Trades United seeks to hold the Government accountable for protecting tradespeople and ensuring the enforcement of laws designed to safeguard the broader community.

With growing industry support, this rally aims to compel policymakers to address the root causes of tool theft and deliver the urgent reforms required.

The organisation demands increased funding for law enforcement, including specialist crime personnel and frontline officers, prioritising motor vehicle crimes including theft from vehicles.

In addition, it calls for Government to revise existing equipment theft law to include power tools, and provide tougher sentences with tool theft an aggravated offence.

Shoaib Awan, said: “On February 3 2025, I will bring tradespeople across the country together, once again, at Parliament Square for the new Government to see the distress thieves have caused to their livelihoods.

“Tool theft numbers are rising year on year and not enough is being done by the Government to protect the trades.

“A crime reference number is not acceptable. We don’t want policies that don’t work, we need strict enforcement and a crackdown operation with immediate effect.

“It’s distressing how widespread tool theft has become, impacting not only livelihoods but also mental well-being and family stability.

“The lack of effective intervention from law enforcement only exacerbates the problem.

“Businesses suffer not only from the loss of tools but also from the subsequent financial burdens such as increased insurance costs and repairs.

“It’s essential for communities, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies to work together to address this epidemic and provide support for those affected.”