Riot families face eviction

Ministers are considering allowing councils in England to evict tenants whose children were caught up in last month’s riots, the government has said.

Housing minister Grant Shapps revealed the Department for Communities and Local Government was exploring widening an existing law so authorities could remove those found guilty – and their families.

It would include allowing councils to evict tenants even if they or their relatives were part of violence and looting in other areas. Mr Shapps said: “No guidance has been issued on the eviction of tenants if they or their family members are convicted of criminal activities during the recent disorder.”