Christopher BarrettRepresentatives from more than 70 private security companies and industry associations have signed a letter to the Home Secretary and the Minister for Security calling on the Government to implement business licensing.
The letter states that the existing framework, which mandates licensing for individual security operatives, leaves businesses largely unregulated and that as a result an estimated 12,000 security supply businesses remain untraceable by key government agencies. The signatories state that the current framework creates vulnerabilities that facilitate exploitation, tax evasion, and even infiltration by organised crime.
It goes on to claim that the absence of business licensing not only compromises public safety but also results in substantial financial losses for the Government: “Non-payment of taxes and benefit fraud within the sector is estimated to cost the Government an estimated £1 billion annually. Business licensing would address this by providing HMRC with greater visibility, ensuring all operators contribute their fair share. The tax benefits alone make this reform a compelling financial opportunity, and extensive groundwork has already been laid with HMRC to support this initiative.”
UK Door Security Association chair & Night Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill said the implementation of business licensing for the private security sector is long overdue: “The current regulatory framework has significant gaps that put public safety at risk, particularly within the broader hospitality and nighttime economy sectors, where security plays a critical role. The findings from the Manchester Arena Inquiry and the subsequent introduction of Martyn’s Law, make it clear that stronger regulations are needed to enhance security measures, close loopholes, and ensure greater accountability.”