Gypsy petition goes to Parliament

The Gypsies have set up home on the site

A 700-signature petition to stop Gypsies living on land they own in Wiltshire is being presented to Parliament by the local MP.

A group of 56 Gypsies bought the three-acre site at Minety in August 2003, digging trenches to carry electricity cables and water pipes.

But some people in the village say they should be evicted for carrying out the changes without planning permission.

James Gray MP says he wants to confirm everyone must follow planning laws.

"The people of Minety ask the House of Commons to reaffirm that all sections of the community must obey the same planning law," said Mr Gray, MP for North Wiltshire

A public inquiry into the legality of the Minety Gypsies' camp was held last month. Its findings are expected later this year.

The final decision on whether the community can stay or not rests with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.