Sir David, MP for Southend West, is supporting the Bill spearheaded by Andrew Selous, MP for South West Bedfordshire, which aims to make major changes to planning laws related to traveller sites.

The proposed changes would allow easier conversion of caravan sites into settled accommodation and give more powers to local authorities to stop unauthorised encampments.

This approach has been called the ‘Irish option’ and is the way in which the issues of illegal traveller sites have been addressed in the Republic of Ireland.

As well as tackling the problem of illegal encampments, the Bill would also enhance welfare provisions and integration for Gypsy and Traveller communities.

Sir David said: “This Bill is long overdue, and I am delighted to support my colleague Andrew Selous MP in getting this legislation through. Illegal traveller sites are a big problem in Southend West and throughout Essex, it is about time that the Government took action on this matter.”