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Rise in Rural Crime Costs the Agricultural Industry £70million

Rural crime is on the increase with the farming industry losing out on £70 million a year due to theft of machinery such as Tractors, Landrovers and power tools
Finance, Lifestyle - 19 January 2011   Download IconContent available for download:  
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  News Hooks:

The latest annual figure for the total income from farming in the UK is £4.07 billion. The agricultural industry is a vital part of the UK’s economy, especially for thousands of families in rural areas, yet in the past there have been various drops in farming’s profitability, caused by increases in exchange rate, lower world commodity prices and the impact of BSE.

Another factor that affects the industry is the £70 million worth of ‘plant’ and agricultural machinery that is stolen every year, with 95% of vehicles and machinery never being recovered. Plant and agricultural machinery theft is a growing problem, with 70% of people who live in rural towns and villages across the UK believing that rural crime is increasing.

Research reveals that rural crime has changed from a highly opportunist activity to a planned one and 63% of people believe that thieves come from outside the area. The crime is relatively low risk and lucrative for thieves, with proceeds being linked to a range of serious and organised crime, including terrorism. These thefts are often attributed to low level security and 64% believe that better security measures are the key to reducing rural crime.

. Introduction:

Farming and agriculture is a vital part of the UK’s economy, and the industry is especially important for the thousands of families who live in rural areas. However, there are various factors that affect its profitability, including the millions of pounds worth of machinery that is stolen every year. Rural crime is increasing, with thieves taking advantage of the relative low risk and lucrative pay off.

So, what can be done to reduce the risk of agricultural machinery being stolen?

Joining us to discuss this further is Stuart Chapman, a Police Liason Officer and Clive Girling, from TRACKER.

. Suggested Questions:

What does the research reveal about plant and agricultural theft in our area?

So, why is rural crime an increasing problem?

Is it a relatively low risk crime?

Why are so many vehicles and machinery not being recovered?

What can owners do to safeguard their property?

Where can we find out more information?