Grayling gives householders burglar boost
Chris Grayling has announced that homeowners who use force to rid intruders from their property will receive greater protection under the law.
In his speech to the Conservative party conference, the Justice Secretary said that "grossly disproportionate" force will remain illegal, but the law will shift from the current expectation of a "proportionate" response.
David Cameron told BBC News: "What we’re doing effectively here is raising the bar, and raising the bar pretty high.”
Mr Grayling said the law would now be on the side of people who attacked intruders.
"Clearly it’s desirable that someone doesn’t end up seriously injured or dead but ultimately you should be in a position as a householder where if somebody is in your home and you fear for you safety, you can defend yourself without having to ask the question ‘if I do this will the law be on my side’," he told Today on Radio 4.
Mr Grayling also used his speech to announce a 'two strikes and out' policy for serious violent or sexual offences, which will see an automatic life sentence on the second offence.
Meanwhile, Home Secretary Theresa May has announced plans to allow victims of antisocial behaviour to choose punishments for the perpetrators.