In the run up to the general election, Tony Blair is reported to be backing a range of measures to address public concern over crime and terrorism.

The Times says that the next session of parliament will focus on measures to improve safety on the streets and offer security from new threats.

David Blunkett's flagship measure will be a bill for the step-by-step introduction of national identity cards.

Shadow home secretary David Davis said there would be "a lot of headline-grabbing initiatives".

"Whether they will make a difference is another matter," he added.

A YouGov poll for the Telegraph today shows that 81 per cent of respondents believe the police should be given power to fine under-age hooligans, thieves and vandals.

Meanwhile, the Telegraph also reports that the Home Office is to be split up as part of a restructuring of law and order responsibilities after the next election.

Under Labour's plans, a ministry of justice and a separate department of rights could be created, replacing the Department for Constitutional Affairs and the Home Office.