MP Julia Drown has welcomed new Government proposals to tackle anti-social behaviour and prostitution.

A Government white paper has said that those responsible for anti-social behaviour should be punished for their actions. These include drunken yobs and aggressive beggars.

It comes ahead of the Government's planned Anti-Social Behaviour Bill.

The bill includes powers for council's to fine noisy neighbours, restricting the sale of air weapons and spray paints and giving police powers to take home unaccompanied children.

Ms Drown, who represents South Swindon, said: "The anti-social behaviour which some prostitutes bring, such as discarded condoms and needles, is a real problem in central Swindon and I know that many residents feel threatened and intimidated by their presence.

"I hope we will continue to see real improvement in central Swindon so that we are all able to enjoy our town centre without feeling threatened."

In February, Swindon Council won a court injunction preventing four known prostitutes from frequenting the Manchester Road area. The council is looking into creating a Home Zone in the same area which is intended to make it more appealing to residents.