Charles Clarke has ruled out giving householders more freedom to fight back against burglars.

The home secretary said that instead a publicity campaign would be mounted to explain the current legal position..

Government Response: Home Office

Charles Clarke, home secretary, said: "Concerns have been raised about the ability of householders to use reasonable force to defend themselves, their families, their homes and their property.

"The prime minister stated on 8 December that the government appreciates that real public concern exists over these issues, and that they would be reviewed.