Hopes for a crackdown on retail crime

The Motor Trade Association is calling for a suite of measures to combat service station theft, after a spike in violent smash-and-grab robberies and drive-off fuel theft.

It includes allowing retailers to claim a tax rebate on stolen fuel, and disqualifying offenders from discounted sentences.

First Retail Group Managing Director Chris Wilkinson says the sector is facing a very challenging time as aggravated robberies have tripled in two years.