A CAMPAIGN to introduce legislation to outlaw cowboy builders moves to Westminster next month.

Policy-makers will hear from consumer watchdogs and doorstep crime experts when a seminar is staged by the Trading Standards Institute and Leeds MP Paul Truswell.

Delegates will be told why moves - backed by The Northern Echo - are being made to make cold-calling for the purpose of property repairs illegal.

Brian Steele, a former detective chief superintendent, will speak at the seminar and reveal details of his four-year research programme into the activities of doorstep conmen.

Mr Steele, whose work has been recognised with a police research award from the Home Secretary, is regarded as the foremost expert on doorstep crime.

A Trading Standards Institute survey, which showed 96 per cent of householders do not want cold calling at their homes, will also be used as evidence to support the campaign.

Chief executive Ron Gainsford said: "Doorstep crime can range from distraction burglary to, in extreme cases, violent assault and even murder.

"Unscrupulous doorstep selling can lead to vulnerable people parting with huge sums of money for unnecessary or overpriced work.

"The Trading Standards Institute report argued the cold calling of property repairs, maintenance and improvements should be prohibited.

"Public opinion clearly supports such a position and the damage to legitimate trader interests would be minimal if anything.

"The position is supported by the Federation of Master Builders, which represents 13,000 small and medium-sized building firms.

"It also has support from a wide range of enforcement agencies, trade bodies, stakeholder groups and support organisations."

The Northern Echo launched its Doorstoppers campaign in November in conjunction with trading standards officials and the police to raise awareness of the problem and to demand legislation.

It also has the backing of utility companies and charities that work with the elderly, such as Age Concern and Help the Aged, as well as Victim Support.

The seminar will be held at Portcullis House on Wednesday, February 4.