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The Enforcement Conduct Board (ECB) has publicly warned that the UK government’s rollout of mandatory bailiff regulation is dragging, leaving millions of debt‑burdened Britons exposed to aggressive and unregulated enforcement practices. ECB Calls Out Government for Stalling Mandatory Bailiff Regulation One year after the Ministry of Justice announced plans to make independent regulation of bailiffs compulsory, Chris Nichols, ECB chief executive, said there is “still no clear plan” and urged immediate action. Announcement made: June 2025 Current status: No statutory requirement for enforcement firms to be authorised by the ECB. Key criticism: Lack of “visible progress” despite a consultation launched on 9 June 2025. £1 bn Annual Revenue and 7 million Enforcement Cases Highlight Industry Scale The bailiff sector is a substantial market: Annual collections exceed £1 bn, largely from unpaid parking, traffic fines, and council tax arrears. More than 7 million cases are sent to enforcement each year, affecting millions of households. Largest operator, Marston Holdings, was forced into a refunds programme after overcharging debtors. Consumer Trust Erodes as Unregulated Bailiffs Continue Aggressive Practices Consumer groups have highlighted a range of concerning behaviours, including: Doorstep aggression and intimidation. Overcharging and illegal clamping of vehicles, even those used by disabled people. Threats to seize “exempt” possessions. Financial‑advice guru Martin Lewis called the lack of an independent regulator “outrageous”, citing widespread distress and bullying. Potential Legislative Push Expected After Growing Public Pressure The Ministry of Justice reiterated its commitment to stronger regulation and promised to announce next steps soon. Analysts predict that mounting public and political pressure could accelerate statutory reforms within the next 12 months. Upcoming milestones: Publication of detailed proposals following the current consultation. Stakeholder sentiment: Broad support from debt charities, the public, and a majority of the enforcement industry for statutory regulation.