NEW measures have been announced to crack down on metal thieves.

Metal dealers with an annual turnover of �1 million or less will require a licence.

This raises the exemption limit from the current level of �100,000, which is not fit for purpose given the increase in value over recent year.

However the exception is likely to be removed to bring all dealers into the scheme and will work the industry to ensure these plans are sustainable.

Justice Secretary, Kenny MacAskill made the announcement as he joined British Transport Police and the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland for the launch of their Cut Out Metal Theft campaign.

He said, "The Scottish Government is taking tough steps to scrap metal theft. With the cost to the UK economy being put as high as �770 million, the status quo is untenable.

The consultation responses confirm that there is an overwhelming case to ensure proper regulation, licensing and the highest possible standards of practice in the industry.

We will take action on cash payments for metal to remove the attraction of easy 'ready cash' payments. Announcing a tenfold rise in the exemption warrant threshold will regulate hundreds of additional dealers. And we will ensure that all dealers are licensed, working with the industry to create a robust, workable scheme to do this.

This would reduce the outlets for stolen metal and the incentive to steal. Licensing could also help ensure that better records are kept. CCTV cameras are installed and checks on customer identities are conducted.

We welcome the commitment the British Transport Police and ACPOS are making to tackling metal theft, high profile campaigns, heightened co-operation between agencies and bespoke training for officers are part of the solution.

With tough legislation and enforcement we can make a difference, and we will continue to work with police, industries affected by metal theft and the majority of reputable metal dealers to and stop metal thieves." Responses to a consultation into the licensing of metal dealers have been published on the Scottish Government's website.