The move comes after Belfast campaigners petitioned the prime minister, Tony Blair.

Mr Blair has asked the Northern Ireland Office to work with the group.

Families feel helpless at what's happened and so are pleading with people to come out and support them on Saturda

Tony Holland Campaign co-ordinator

The crackdown will form part of the portfolio of an NIO minister.

More than 20 people have been killed by car thieves in Northern Ireland.

The latest victim was Kieran Conlon, who was killed by a speeding car in west Belfast last month.

Mr Blair told the campaigners - Families Bereaved Through Car Crime - that a minister would work directly with them and Secretary of State John Reid would meet them soon.

'Taunting the community'

Campaign co-ordinator Tony Holland said: "We need tougher sentences immediately and a new law."

Mr Holland has urged public support for a rally at Belfast City Hall next Saturday.

He added: "People are very angry - these criminals and thugs are still driving around and taunting the community despite the latest death.

"Families feel helpless at what's happened and so are pleading with people to come out and support them on Saturday."