Quakers call for change in law targeting Gypsy and Traveller communities
Quakers in Britain have joined over 20 organisations in calling on the government to scrap a law they say unfairly targets Gypsy and Traveller communities.
In a joint letter to the policing minister, Dame Diana Johnson, they urge the government to repeal Part 4 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022.
The section of the law gives police the power to fine, arrest and remove people living in unauthorised encampments.
It also allows officers to ban families from returning to an area for up to a year.
Paul Parker, Recording Clerk for Quakers in Britain, said: “As Quakers, we believe there is that of God in everyone. Laws that criminalise whole communities go against that belief.
“This law causes real harm, and the government must act now to put things right."
Breach of Human Rights Act
In May 2024, the High Court ruled that some of these powers breach the Human Rights Act.
The judge said that taking someone's caravan or vehicle - often their home - would “cause real hardship" and interfere with their right to family life.
The government has said it is “considering the best way forward" but has not yet taken action.
Quakers and other groups say the new Crime and Policing Bill 2025 is a chance to fix the problem.
Among the other organisations supporting the call are Amnesty International UK, Liberty, Homeless Link, and several Gypsy and Traveller-led charities.
The UN has also raised concerns. In March, a UN human rights committee formally recommended that the UK repeal Part 4 of the Act.
Quakers in Britain say the law must change to ensure fairness, dignity, and respect for everyone.