Stephen Morgan MP has renewed his call for residents and businesses to support his campaign to crack down on rogue traders and suspected criminal activity on Portsmouth’s high streets.
In a post on X, the Labour MP for Portsmouth South said the city’s shopping areas should not be “overrun by fake shops” but should instead be safe and vibrant places for families and communities.
Morgan urged local people to join his “Stop Dodgy Shops” campaign, which is calling for stronger action against rogue operators while protecting responsible businesses and restoring public confidence in Portsmouth’s shopping streets.
The campaign was launched in response to concerns about illicit vape sellers, counterfeit goods and cash-intensive businesses suspected of being used as fronts for organised crime, money laundering or tax evasion.
Morgan has warned that such activity damages the reputation of local shopping areas, drives away customers and leaves legitimate businesses facing unfair competition from operators who fail to follow the rules.
Residents and business owners are being invited to support the campaign and share their suggestions about what further action could be taken to prevent and prosecute illicit activity across the city.
The campaign comes alongside action from the Labour government to target criminal networks exploiting high street businesses.
Ministers have announced a £30 million nationwide crackdown and established a High Street Organised Crime Unit to bring together government departments, police, Trading Standards and other enforcement agencies.
Further measures would give police and local authorities stronger powers to close rogue businesses for longer while investigations and prosecutions are pursued.
Morgan said:
“Portsmouth’s shopping areas should not be overrun by fake shops and criminal activity. Instead, they should be safe, vibrant places for families and communities.
“Join my campaign to Stop Dodgy Shops, crack down on rogue traders and protect our city’s shopping streets.”
