Clarke at war with dealers.

HOME Secretary Charles Clarke yesterday vowed to push ahead with plans to hit dealers with longer jail terms, despite concerns from civil rights groups.

He told MPs the Drugs Bill, piloted by his predecessor David Blunkett, would protect law-abiding people from the "huge danger" caused by pushers.

There had been speculation Mr Clarke would pursue a softer line on law and order.

But in the Commons yesterday he unveiled a raft of measures to tackle drug dealers.

Those who operate near schools and use children as mules will be hit hardest.

Mr Clarke said: "It is the drug abuser who threatens the civil liberties of the law-abiding citizen rather than the reverse.

"We need to ensure the damage done by the abuser to themselves and society is prevented."

But the Government was accused of "knee-jerk legislation".