Demonstrators protest

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Demonstrators taking part in a protest outside the Royal Courts of Justice in the Strand yesterday to mark the start of a legal challenge to the London Borough of Tower Hamlets' assured tenancy scheme. Up to 200 families have been rehoused with private families under the scheme, after expecting to receive an affordable council home. In some cases rents are said to exceed pounds 200 a week - usually above the housing benefit ceiling - leading to arrears, which is denied by the council. The court hearing continues today.