ACS

ACS has welcomed Police Minister Nick Herbert’s decision to rule out a ban on mosquito devices for use in shops.

The call for a ban on the devices, which are designed to reduce anti social behavior by emitting a high pitched noise audible only to under 25s, came from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) who claimed that there may be other health implications involved with the use of the device.

Speaking to the Commons, Nick Herbert said: “In relation to the Council of Europe report and the issue of guidance, our stance is that we do not see this as an issue on which we should intervene.”

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We welcome the Minister’s decision. ‘Mosquito’ devices have provided a number of local shop owners a way through difficult and distressing anti-social behaviour problems.

We do not believe that their use should be pervasive or persistent, but targeted and responsible use of this equipment is an absolutely legitimate way for communities to deter anti-social gangs.”

Contacts:

Shane Brennan, Public Affairs Director
01252 533009 / 07921 372978

Chris Noice, Communications Assistant
01252 533013

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,500 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.