Apprehension of Burglars Bill

A Bill to provide immunity from prosecution or civil action for persons who apprehend or attempt to apprehend burglars; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

1 May 2012

In Plain English

AI-generated

The Apprehension of Burglars Bill would grant immunity from criminal prosecution or civil action to people who stop or try to stop burglars. It is aimed at protecting ordinary members of the public—such as homeowners, tenants or staff—who intervene during a burglary. The bill also includes related provisions clarifying how the immunity operates.

Key Points

- Immunity from criminal prosecution for people who apprehend or attempt to apprehend burglars.
- Immunity from civil liability for the same actions.
- Applies to both actual apprehension and attempted apprehension of burglars.
- Aims to help ordinary people who intervene during a burglary (e.g., homeowners, shop staff).
- Includes connected provisions that set out how the immunity works.

Progress

The bill is currently at the second reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it will move to committee scrutiny and then to further readings, before going to the House of Lords for consideration.

Who is affected?

Private individuals who intervene during burglaries (e.g., homeowners, tenants, employees)Households and small businessesBystanders and witnesses to burglariesPolice, prosecutors and courts (as bodies applying and interpreting the law)Burglars and others accused of burglary (indirectly affected by changes to liability)

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Apprehension of Burglars

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Apprehension of Burglars Bill | TrackPolitics