Controversial plans to remove state benefits from anyone found guilty of taking part in the riots that engulfed many English cities last week are threatening to create a rift at the heart of Britain’s coalition government.

Advisers to David Cameron, prime minister, are considering ways to remove support from those involved in the violence. The proposals have strong public backing but are opposed by many Liberal Democrats, the Conservatives’ partners in -government.

An adviser to Iain Duncan Smith, work and pensions secretary, who is in charge of managing the benefits system, said: “[Mr Duncan Smith] feels very strongly that some of these guys need to be punished.” The aide added: “It depends on how you see benefits: are they a right or a privilege? Sanctions like this do send a strong message.”