Rules to prevent people found guilty of serious crimes from serving on local councils will be strengthened following a public consultation, the Government has announced.

Local government minister Rishi Sunak said it would mean anyone subject to an anti-social behaviour injunction, a criminal behaviour order, a sexual risk order or who is on the sex offenders register will no longer be able to stand for elected office.

Current conditions mean anyone convicted of an offence carrying a prison sentence of more than three months is banned from serving as a local councillor.

The new measures will strengthen this further by bringing disqualification rules in line with modern sentencing to include the alternatives to a prison sentence.

Mr Sunak said the changes will make sure those who represent their communities are accountable and held to the highest possible standards.

He said: 'Elected members play a crucial role in town halls across the country, and are the foundations of local democracy. Rishi Sunak'They are community champions, and have a leading role to play in building a better society for everyone. Rishi Sunak'With such an important role comes great responsibility, and these changes will protect residents while upholding the values and high standards of behaviour we all expect.'