Role of bailiffs

Press, 27 October 1989, Page 12

Role of bailiffs

Sir,—l was appalled to learn from Sunday’s TV “Frontline” programme that if I neglect to pay my dog registration, or even a comparatively small fine, then officially appointed bailiffs can break into my house with impunity and take what they choose. Even worse, if a guest who used my address incurred a fine during that time, and neglected to pay it, then I am vulnerable to legalised burglary and the onus is on me to prove that the goods removed are my property. I know of a recent case where a parking ticket, of which the recipient was unaware, wandered around for about 10 weeks before correct delivery. The use of unregistered mail for this purpose is indefensible. Also, it would appear that a system where seized property is auctioned in the fashion described is open to a risk of corrupt practices. What happened to the open, consensus government that some of us were gullible enough to vote for? — Yours, etc., JAN VERNON. October 24, 1989.

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