MP for Portsmouth North, Amanda Martin, has launched a new campaign “Back Our High Streets – Stop Dodgy Shops”, calling on the Government to give councils and trading standards the powers and resources needed to crack down on illicit and exploitative high-street activity.
Recent findings show that mini-marts, vape shops, barbers, souvenir stores and other cash-intensive businesses are increasingly being used as fronts for organised crime, tax evasion and illegal working. BBC reporting has also revealed “ghost directors” and concealed trading operations selling smuggled cigarettes and vapes activity that undermines public services and harms community safety.
Amanda Martin MP for Portsmouth said: “Our high streets should be safe, vibrant places for families and for honest local businesses. But here in Portsmouth, dodgy vape shops, cowboy barbers and fake American candy stores are pushing out legitimate traders and damaging our communities.”
“This isn’t just happening here, I’m joining forces with MPs across the country to speak out. Rogue traders, tax dodgers and sham companies are exploiting loopholes while honest businesses play by the rules.”
She continued: “Enough is enough. I’m launching my Back Our High Streets – Stop Dodgy Shops campaign. I’m calling on the Government to give councils and trading standards the powers and resources they need to crack down on rogue traders and protect the future of our high streets.”
Key elements of the campaign include:
- Greater powers for councils and trading standards to close shops operating illegally or acting as fronts for organised crime.
- Stronger enforcement and tougher penalties for tax evasion, illegal labour, smuggling and counterfeiting.
- A Portsmouth-focused approach to ensure national problems are tackled locally, supporting independent traders and boosting neighbourhood safety.
- A petition for residents to add their names, demonstrating public support and sending a clear message to ministers and regulators.
Amanda Martin added: “The time for half-measures is over. When shops serve as cash laundries rather than trading fairly, they destroy trust in our high streets, drive away legitimate investment and make our streets less safe. Local authorities must be empowered and given the resources to act.”
Local businesses in Portsmouth have repeatedly raised concerns that they are being squeezed out by traders who flout the rules, avoid tax and exploit weak regulations. Amanda’s campaign seeks to restore fairness and rebuild pride in Portsmouth’s town centres.
She concluded: “We owe it to the people of Portsmouth to ensure our high streets are places of opportunity, security and pride. Back my calls and help me stand up for Portsmouth’s high streets add your name today.”
