Old nineteenth century laws on street traders are to be amended but not repealed, the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills has said, following consultation. The Pedlars Acts of 1871 and 1881 will be made compliant with EU legislation by removing the requirement for residency in the local area. The age limit will be retained, and a new good character check will be developed with police to replace the old “good character” requirement, which was felt to be vague and inconsistently applied.