In response to calls to combat the number of Charity Muggers using Gentleman's Walk, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Norwich South Antony Little has called upon the council to start regulating their work.

Although the council has no requirement to do so, complaints from shoppers and businesses need to be addressed.  Mr Little, who is also Conservative Group Leader at City Hall, said:

"Like all on-street traders, Chuggers must be accountable for their work.  If City Hall provided licenses and checked that they are being adhered to then we could also control the numbers."

"It would certainly prevent a proliferation from a single charity because we could insist that any group has only one or two licenses."

"We are not against charities nor the work they do - it is vital that we remain a giving community even in tough times.  However to be fair on everyone in the City, a system of licenses could solve this issue."

8th February 2010