The government has welcomed new data showing a significant increase in the seizure of Class A drugs.

Home Office data has revealed that drug seizures reached an all time high in 2001.

Police and customs officials swooped on 38,000 cases involving hard drugs such as ecstasy and cocaine - a 10 per cent increase on the previous record level.

The move comes as the government softens its line on drugs such as cannabis in a bid to refocus on the possession and dealing of class A narcotics.

Seizures involving cocaine rose by 16 per cent and nearly 56 kilos of crack were taken off the streets.

The data also reveals that over four tonnes of heroin were discovered, along with 7.7 million ecstasy tablets.

Despite claims that the government is losing the war on drugs, Home Office minister Caroline Flint said the figures revealed that "more effective targeted action by enforcement agencies" was paying off.

"Customs officers are targeting the class A drug smugglers, cross regional police 'hit squads' are breaking up the 'wholesaler' middle drugs market, and local police have increased their efforts to get rid of street dealers and shut down premises that are used for dealing," she said.

"I am particularly pleased that the drugs which do most harm to society, such as crack and heroin are being stopped in greater quantities.

"By preventing these drugs reaching the streets our law enforcement agencies are making a difference to the communities, families and individuals whose lives are blighted by drugs."