Police should be given powers to seize young troublemakers mobile phones or bikes as punishment for antisocial behaviour, the Tories said today.
Chris Grayling, the shadow home secretary, said he wanted officers to confiscate such possessions for up to a month to deter badly behaved youths.
He said losing their phone or bike would be a "21st century clip around the ear" for youngsters who stepped out of line, and would help disrupt gang activity."
He told an audience at the Centre for Policy Studies that all police officers ought to be given more discretion and better punishments to deal with the "Nokia generation"
"I'd like to see police given the power to confiscate, temporarily, a young troublemaker's mobile phone, removing their sim card, with all their mobile numbers and text messages on it, for a fortnight or a month; not permanently, but long enough to make a point."
No, no, no, no, NO! There is never a justification for the State to seize personal property EVER!
What they need is a 19th century 'clip around the ear'. I am horrified to hear Grayling utter such socialist nonsense. (This just proves my point that the Conservatives have become New Labour).
This would be a horrifying slippery slope. It would set a terrifying president.
Not only is it justice handed out without the right to a fair hearing, but opens up to more Draconian police powers on top of those handed to them in the Terrorism Act and Hate laws.
Whilst some may argue that his is just what is needed, let me tell you, it may be the young first served with summary justice, but it won't be long before it is severed to all.
One may laugh at this proposal, though you may not be laughing when your TV is seized for non payment of BBC tax.
Following Graylings statements, I would prefer to see him moved to another position, say like the back benches.
Beacon
