Tories back have-a-go heroes

"Have a go heroes" would not be arrested or prosecuted as long as they acted reasonably, said Shadow Home Secretary Chris Grayling.

The measure is part of the Mending Our Broken Society section of the Tories' draft manifesto.

Other proposals would give "greater protection" to householders who defend their homes against intruders, it was claimed.

Currently they are allowed to use reasonable force to protect themselves but the Tories have suggested allowing all actions that were not grossly disproportionate.

The document also includes measures that would see prisoners' earnings taxed and the money paid into a victims' fund; a strengthening of police stop and search powers and grounding orders to deal with anti-social behaviour; as well as allowing police to use surveillance powers without for authorisation in routine cases.

Mr Grayling said the changes would help "put law back on the side of the citizen".

"People up and down this country are hugely frustrated with our criminal justice system. They feel that it's just not on their side anymore."