Queensland MP calls for return of vagrancy laws to allow police to prosecute homeless people

LNP member for Mermaid Beach says absence of legislative power to remove tents set up in his electorate is unacceptable'

• Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

A Gold Coast Liberal National party MP has called for the return of vagrancy laws to allow police to prosecute homeless people amid an ongoing crackdown on tent cities in Queensland.

Ray Stevens, the member for Mermaid Beach, made the call in a speech to parliament last week.

Sign up for Guardian Australia's breaking news email