MP Mike Hall has welcomed plans to give police more powers to tackle drug dealers and drug dens in Weaver Vale.

Mr Hall says there needs to be tougher punishments for drug dealers, who should be forced to get treatment for their addiction.

He said: "Drugs destroy communities, wreck lives and create crime.

"Whether it is a drug den attracting violence, abusive behaviour and crime to a peaceful neighbourhood or a dealer preying on teenagers to sell their drugs, no community should have to deal with the fall out from this evil trade."

Mr Hall said he was pleased that Home Secretary David Blunkett had announced a tough new series of raids on crack houses.

He said: "These evil places rip the heart out of communities and leave neighbours scared to go out.

"I want tougher powers for police so more drug dealers are brought to justice and taken off the streets."