Locks and Security News: your weekly locks and security industry newsletter
17th April 2024 Issue no. 701

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Government backs MLA 2011 handbook

The UK's biggest locksmithing trade association has further cemented its position as one of the country's leading security experts with a stamp of approval from the Home Office.

The coalition Government's James Brokenshire MP, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Crime Prevention has praised the work of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) and invited the association to contribute to shaping the voluntary and regulatory options for improving home security in Britain.

Mr Brokenshire wrote to Dr Steffan George of the MLA after he received the organisation's 2011 handbook which outlines recommended levels of home security. He described the handbook as: "illustrating the significant contribution that the MLA has made, not only to improving the professionalism of locksmithing but also to driving up product security standards across a number of different areas."

The letter goes on to state that the Department for Communities and Local Government and the Home Office would like to work with the MLA on an ongoing basis to discuss improving the security of both new and old homes across the UK.

Commenting on the letter, Dr Steffan George from the MLA said: "I met James Brokenshire last year when he was still in opposition and we have remained in contact since the coalition Government came into power.

"We have regularly updated Mr Brokenshire on various industry developments and concerns and it is reassuring to know the Government is taking the issues as seriously as we are. It's always great to receive positive comments about the MLA and we are delighted that we will be able to have our say on future Government security initiatives."

In 2009 the MLA also received recognition from the then, Minister of State, Ministry of Justice, Maria Eagle, who describe the MLA as the "principal trade body representing locksmiths and promoting standards within the industry."

More than 400 insurers, surveyors, partners as well as police and Government contacts received the 2011 MLA Handbook. 

www.locksmiths.co.uk

16th February 2011