Domestic Abuse Bill - Lords amendment 9B and related amendments

Questioned the Minister's approach to including repeat domestic abusers and high-harm stalkers under MAPPA categories 1 or 2. Emphasised that the current proposals would exclude numerous serious cases, thus going backwards on addressing repeat domestic abuse. She sought assurances that all convicted serial domestic abusers will be included in category 3.

Acknowledged the Minister's work but emphasised the need for full inclusion of repeat domestic abuse cases and high-harm stalkers under MAPPA. Raised concerns about poor practices at child contact centres, lack of clarity on who reviews codes, breach procedures, and resource constraints affecting frontline workers' ability to monitor perpetrators effectively.

Mr. McDonald opposes the Government's amendments in lieu of Lords amendments 40B and 40C on data sharing for immigration purposes, arguing that they create power without an obligation and limit Parliament’s ability to amend any code. He also criticises the Government's rejection of Lord Bishop of Gloucester’s amendment on the domestic violence rule and concession.

Ms. Creasy supports the inclusion of amendments to ensure protection for victims of domestic abuse regardless of their immigration status. She questions the conditions under which a person's immigration status should affect access to help and emphasises the importance of identifying past behaviour in guidance documents.

Welcomes the Minister’s commitment to a perpetrators strategy but expresses concern about its scope and clarity. Highlights that while the strategy will cover domestic abuse threats included in categories 1 and 2, it does not include thousands of repeat perpetrators of domestic abuse or stalkers who would fall outside these categories.

Supports Yvette Cooper and other Labour MPs in their concerns about the lack of legislation on serial abusers and perpetrators. Emphasises that without defined legislation, it will be difficult to hold the Government accountable for action against such offenders.

Expresses frustration at not being able to cross the final line on achieving what they want from the Bill. Concerned about the vulnerability of migrant women and feels that waiting for a stalker or serial domestic abuser to get a conviction is too late.

Highlights concerns on identification, monitoring, and management of serial domestic abuse and stalking perpetrators. Supports the Lords amendment as it brings clarity and offers greater support to victims.

Clarifies concerns about MAPPA categories, emphasising professional judgment in risk assessment. Supports Clare's law as a tool for victims and police to use. Outlines future work on VAWG strategy and dedicated national strategy on domestic abuse.

Asks for clarification regarding inclusion of repeat domestic abusers in MAPPA category 3 through guidance changes. Expresses concern over clarity and assurance that all high-risk offenders will be included.

Expresses support for the Minister's comments on helping victims of domestic abuse, mentioning personal experience with constituents facing perpetrators in their offices. Emphasises the need to help victims quickly.

Questions the code regarding the firewall review and seeks accountability measures for data protection. Seeks comfort in Minister's response about consultation with Domestic Abuse Commissioner and Information Commissioner’s Office.

Supports Clare's law as an important tool for victims and police, highlighting its significance in spreading awareness about potential risks in new relationships.