To watch a video of Nightwatch in action click here
A Croydon charity that feeds the homeless has called for an end to a bid by London Councils to ban soup kitchens.
Nightwatch, which helps around 45 homeless people a night in the Queens Gardens with food and clothing handouts, has called on the public to reject a bid by London Councils to ban charities handing out food.
The group of 33 councils has included in its draft London Local Government Bill a proposal to set up zones where food handouts are banned.
Perhaps perversely, while charity food handouts would be banned free taste offers to tempt shoppers in to cafes and shops would be allowed.
The councils are expected to meet in the middle of next month to decide the final shape of the London Local Authorities Bill to be presented to Parliament on November 27.
The councils are taking comments on the plan until Friday.
Nightwatch chairman Jad Adams said the plan was unworkable and targeted those most in need.
He also labelled the move "immoral" and "unworkable".
Mr Adams said Croydon Council supported the group's work and blamed the move on inner London boroughs struggling to deal with their own homelessness problems.
According to the discussion paper, "the unfettered distribution of free food and refreshments causes nuisance to occupiers of premises, often residential premises, in the vicinity" of the handouts.
"It is proposed to prohibit the distribution of free refreshments on land designated by a London borough council.
"It would also be an offence to cause another person to distribute such refreshments.
"Unlawful distribution of free food would be an offence, and would be liable on summary conviction to a fine.
"Exemptions would be included, for example, the distribution of refreshments to people taking part in sporting events or giving out free samples outside retail premises."
Comments should be sent to Oliver Hatch, Parliamentary and Public Affairs Officer, London Councils, 59 Southwark Street, London SE1 OAL or by email to oliver.hatch@londoncouncils.gov.uk
To watch a video of Nightwatch in action click here
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