The Justice Secretary has said he is on the side of homeowners who defend their property after it emerged that an armed burglar who died after struggling with a pensioner was a career criminal wanted by police.

Henry Vincent, 37, died from a stab wound following a burglary at the South London home of 78-year-old Richard Osborn-Brooks on Tuesday night. A second man remains on the run.

It comes amid mounting concern about a surge of violence in London, where 55 people have already died this year. The Metropolitan police said yesterday that up to 200 extra police officers will be on the streets this weekend.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, on Thursday broke his silence over the recent spate of murders in the Capital and called for more funding to tackle violent crime.

Mr Osborn-Brooks was yesterday released on bail pending further inquiries after his arrest on suspicion of murder prompted an outcry from victims groups and Tory MPs.

It emerged that Henry Vincent was named by police on a "most wanted" list and had helped con pensioners out of more than £500,000 with his father and five of his uncles.

David Gauke, the Justice Secretary, on Thursday night made clear that the Government's "sympathies" are with homeowners who defend themselves during break-ins.