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News Story

Warning on unlicensed locksmiths

Wednesday 15th July 2009

The Master Locksmiths Association is warning agents not to use non-member locksmiths and to check out the status of locksmiths they have used until now.

As from this week, the MLA is allowed for the first time to carry out Criminal Records Bureau checks into its members and those applying to become licensed locksmiths.

The MLA says that unlicensed locksmiths operate in an entirely unregulated manner and include those with criminal records. The MLA is aware of at least one case where a convicted murderer approached it to become a licensed locksmith.

The ruling by the Ministry of Justice comes after intense lobbying by the MLA, police and MPs.

Dr Steffan George, development director at the MLA, said: “Prior to this, it was illegal to perform standard CRB checks on locksmiths. There were no effective controls, and unlicensed, potentially criminal, locksmiths could change locks on airports, businesses, schools and people’s homes without any safety net.

“This potential security threat still exists and we are urging businesses and members of the public to make sure they only use Master Locksmiths Association licensed locksmiths.”

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Posted By Jock Maxwell on Thursday 16th July 2009 20:48:44

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I too take exception to this article,I am not a member of the MLA but am a member of another trade orginisation .I use the disclosure Scotland Police check system to reasure customers if required.I have public liability insurance,and skills gained over many years to offer the public and agents,who are among my many clients, along with open pricing,which is available on my web site.www.jockslocks.co.ukthere are many,many capable.locksmiths operating outwith the cartel system,I know this to be fact.

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Posted By Wayne Lever on Thursday 16th July 2009 20:23:48

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While i agree that all locksmiths should be prepared to have CRB checks done on them, i take exception to the comment that only Master Locksmith Association licensed locksmiths should be used.
There are many good honest locksmiths out there who for one reason or another are not, or choose not to be, members of the MLA. They may or may not be members of other trade bodies. Personally I am a member of another (rival) organisation and I had to provide a CRB check before I was allowed to join.
So while i agree in principle with using CRB checked locksmiths (or requesting proof) i do not approve of the article's implication that no other lockmsmiths should be used other than those who have paid membership to join the MLA.
I work in the Norwich area (see Linacre Locksmiths) and am happy to provide my trade references including CRB check documentation to anyone who requests it.

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Editorial Contact Details - Rosalind Renshaw | rosalind.renshaw@estateagenttoday.co.uk | 01252 843 566.