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New sanctions have been introduced in the Isle of Man designed to clamp down on benefit fraud.

The legislation means that people who are found guilty may have their benefits taken away for four weeks.

Previously, benefit fraud would have to have been committed twice before the government could take action.

Minister for Social Care, Martyn Quayle said: "My department is making every reasonable effort to ensure benefit cheats will face suitable penalties.

"Ideally we would not wish to take anyone's benefits away from them, but those who act dishonestly must realise there will now be consequences."

The government has also introduced penalties for those who are convicted of or cautioned for violence towards social services staff.

The offence includes threats to kill or cause injury and harassment.