Shapps: 'Landlords can legally use force on squatters'

Homeowners who are victims of squatters can use violence to break in and forcibly remove them, ministers have claimed. Squatters who retaliate or defend themselves will face tough criminal sanctions under measures planned by the Government.

The anti-squatting package is designed to curb a growth in commercial and residential properties being taken over by well-organised squatters who exploit legal loopholes to take possession of hundreds of empty buildings.

Critics claim the new measures will encourage vigilantism and result in increased violence.

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