ABSTRACT
The government’s concern with serious anti-social behaviour led to the passing of the 2003 Act, which is designed to give the police and local authorities powers to meet their responsibilities. The Act provides powers to close premises that are being used for drug dealing or use, powers to deal with noise at night, and powers to tackle anti-social behaviour in social housing. It also extends measures for enforcing parental responsibility in respect of children who behave in an antisocial manner in school or in the community. Powers are provided for the police to designate areas where they can disperse groups that are causing intimidation. Local authority powers are extended to enable action to be taken against graffiti, waste and litter. The Act also amends police powers for dealing with public assemblies and trespassers.
