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Thugs who emotionally abuse or threaten their partners will face long jail terms ­under tough new laws to be ­announced this week, writes Russell Myers in the Sunday People.

Home Secretary Theresa May is extending domestic ­violence ­offences to include “emotional and psychological harm” by a partner.

Abusers could face up to 14 years behind bars for ­excessive controlling behaviour.

Ms May said: “Abuse is not just physical. Victims who are ­subjected to a living hell by their partners must have the confidence to come forward.

“I want perpetrators to be in no doubt that their cruel and controlling behaviour is criminal.”

Plaid Cymru’s Elfyn Llwyd, the MP driving the new law, added: “Coercive behaviour can be as insidious and as damaging as physical violence.”

The move comes ­after a report slammed current ­police ­responses to domestic abuse as “alarming and unacceptable”.

At present, non-violent coercion by a partner is covered only by laws against stalking and harassment.

Under the new rules prosecutions can be brought over actions such as cutting a partner off from friends and family or denying money to limit their freedom.

Up to 30% of women and 16% of men experience domestic abuse, says the latest crime survey.