Better anonymity in gangbusting bid

The move, designed to bolster protection for those who help the police, is part of a major crackdown on violent groups, according to The Times newspaper.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith is also thought to be considering giving courts wider powers to restrict the movements of gang members.

She is expected to outline the proposals in a speech focusing on the impact of gangs on local communities.

Speaking before the event Ms Smith said: "My priority is to protect and support the victims and witnesses of gun and gang crime.

"We want witnesses to feel safe enough to give evidence right from the beginning.

"If this means an early guarantee that their identities will be protected then so be it. And if law enforcement authorities need new powers then they will have them."

Senior police officers are said to have warned the Government that members of the public need protection earlier in order to convince them to come forward.

Currently, those who testify are unlikely to get a guarantee of anonymity in court until near the start of any trial.

There have also been calls from police for court injunctions that can be used to block known gang members from entering certain parts of cities.