DHAKA: Prosecutors will be urged to seek tougher sentences for people committing hate crimes, following a rise in incidents after the EU referendum.

A £2.4m fund will also be set up for security measures at places of worship, reports the BBC.

A rise in reported hate crimes following the Brexit vote has prompted concerns about a wave of xenophobic and racial abuse.

The Home Office said its action plan aimed to boost reporting of offences and provide support for victims.

Prosecutors will be issued with fresh guidance on racially and religiously aggravated offences.

They will also be encouraged to pursue tougher sentences by applying to courts to exercise existing powers to increase penalties for hate crimes.

Figures released last week showed more than 6,000 alleged hate crimes and incidents were reported to police in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in four weeks from the middle of last month.

The daily rate peaked at 289 on 25 June, the day after the referendum result was announced.

BDST: 1150 HRS, JUL 24, 2016
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