So-called chuggers remain an emotive issue for retailers and the public. Estimates suggest charity street collectors raise £130m a year but their underhand and at times aggressive tactics can harm high streets.

So-called chuggers remain an emotive issue for retailers and the public. Estimates suggest charity street collectors raise £130m a year but their underhand and at times aggressive tactics can harm high streets.

Controversy is unlikely to be dampened by new rules, including preventing chuggers harassing the public by banning them following someone for more than three steps.

While the sentiment is welcome, the measures look unenforceable and the fines meaningless. High streets need a practical solution to the problem, and if that’s not possible then a total ban should be considered.