A TOUGH crackdown on yobs is needed MP Andy Burnham has told Tony Blair.

Yesterday, at Prime Minister's Question Time in the House of Common, Leigh MP Mr Burnham raised the matter of youth vandalism and lawless behaviour.

Mr Burnham asked: "Does the Prime Minister agree there is a growing problem in Leigh and many towns like it with gangs of youths -- who feel above the law -- damaging property, smashing bus shelters and generally making people's life a misery?

"But can I ask if he is aware of a new policy being tested in my constituency by Greater Manchester Police where patrols are no longer sent in response to calls from the public reporting problems of this kind with youth gangs?

"Does the Prime Minister share my concern that this sends out the wrong message and does he agree that our constituents want to see firm action against this type of behaviour remaining a top priority for the Police force?"