|  BEGGING in the street can attract fines of up to 1,500 euros in the city of Valladolid – although the mayor admits that it could be difficult to get the genuinely homeless to pay up.
Javier León de la Riva says the main aim is to combat mafia gangs and people 'trying it on', since many people made a fortune from pretending to be homeless.
“Often, if you offer them a sandwich instead, they don't want it – they say, 'give me some money and I'll buy myself one',” says the mayor.
Numerous people, including members of the opposition, have criticised the bye-law – which includes a ban on nakedness in public, wandering around the streets in swimwear, or putting up signs in cars advertising them for sale - as being a breach of fundamental rights. |
