Gordon Brown and Labour Cabinet members today announced over 50 measures to strengthen communities and support hardworking people who play by the rules.

On the eve of the Queen’s speech, the ‘Fair Rules for Strong Communities’ paper sets out a number of reforms to strengthen communities and contribute to dealing with the global economic downturn.

Policy initiatives are outlined for:

* welfare reform
* crime and policing
* children and young people
* business rules
* immigration
* empowerment

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said:

“We believe in providing real help for families and business now, when they need it.

“But it also means taking action to ensure our communities are strong. Stronger communities, quite simply, will help our country come through these times faster and stronger.

“So as government takes action, we expect people to play their part in return, with clear consequences for those who do not. In a fair society that is what people would expect.

“In Britain, we have always believed there can never be one rule for some, and another rule for others. Rules must apply to individuals, communities and businesses alike.”

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears said:

“People want to see fair rules that apply to everyone, and have a fair say in their communities. This is particularly true in tough economic times. We are - and will continue - to support people who really need our help. But, no-one should be in any doubt if you intend to take more out of the system then you put in, you won’t get away with it. Rights matched by responsibilities: that’s the fair way.”

Read 'Fair Rules for Stronger Communities' here