'Neighbours from hell' face benefit cuts
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.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."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments