'Neighbours from hell' face benefit cuts

Anti-social tenants could lose more than 50 per cent of their housing benefit as part of a crackdown on "neighbours from hell".

A private members' Bill by Frank Field, Labour MP for Birkenhead, will introduce penalties for council or private tenants who make life a misery for their neighbours.

Despite fears that tenants might have a case for an appeal under human rights legislation, Tony Blair has ordered action as part of a campaign against unacceptable behaviourwhich contributes to rising violent crime figures. Fast-track evictions are also in the pipeline.

The Independent on Sunday reported last week that Gordon Brown, the Chancellor, had privately signalled his opposition to a plan to cut child benefit for families whose children are persistent truants. Cutting housing benefit is seen by ministers as a more workable option.

Mr Field said: "On the estates, there is a lot of support for this."