AN East Lancashire MP has backed the proposed new laws to improve protection for victims of domestic abuse who have to flee their homes.

The support from Andrew Stephenson, Pendle's MP, comes as the government' secure tenancies bill begins its passed through parliament.

The bill would give victims of domestic abuse better tenancy rights by requiring local authorities to transfer their lifetime tenancy from their old, unsafe social housing to their new home.

Currently, victims face losing their lifetime tenancy when they leave an abusive situation.

Andrew Stephenson MP said: “I am pleased that the security of domestic abuse victims is being taken seriously by parliament.

"Two women die each week at the hands of their abusers and the measures in this bill could potentially save lives and families.

"People who leave abusive homes are often left in an unpredictable and vulnerable situation, so being able to retain a lifelong tenancy could help them to rebuild their lives."

It is estimated nearly two million adults experience domestic abuse each year and, on average, two women are killed by their partner or ex-partner each week.