THE Government must clarify its stance on plans to make squatting in commercial properties a criminal offence, an expert has warned.

David Bailey, partner in the Litigation team at Napthens, said only squatting in residential property is a criminal offence, meaning the police can become involved.

Offenders can face a £5,000 fine, six months in prison or both.

For commercial property it remains a civil matter, meaning property owners often struggle to remove squatters from their property in what can be lengthy and expensive legal proceedings.

The Government is to examine whether the law should be extended to commercial property, and is asking MPs for evidence of problems.

David Bailey said: “Squatting is certainly an irritation for many property owners, both commercial and residential.

“I question whether the proposed changes would go far enough. Travellers setting up illegally and occupying land is increasingly an issue in many areas, but still isn’t a criminal offence."