MIGRANTS who move across the European Union to claim benefits with no intention of working are to be targeted by ministers, the Home Secretary has said.

Speaking following discussions at the Justice and Home Affairs Council in Luxembourg, Theresa May said free movement abuse was a problem for a number of EU member states.

She said a commitment to tackle the problem had been secured following discussions with EU partners.

Mrs May said: "We have secured a commitment to find EU-wide solutions to this problem.

"Stopping the abuse of free movement will help us to maintain an immigration system that works in the UK's national interest. But this is not a problem for the UK alone. That is why we are continuing to develop a consistent and collaborative approach across the EU."

The Cabinet minister reportedly has the backing of Germany to tackle so-called "benefit tourists".