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Policing and Prevention of Violence against Women
15 March 2021
Lead MP
Priti Patel
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
Crime & Law EnforcementJustice & CourtsWomen & Equalities
Other Contributors: 47
At a Glance
Priti Patel raised concerns about policing and prevention of violence against women in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
The Home Secretary, Priti Patel, addressed the House regarding the tragic death of Sarah Everard and recent events at Clapham Common. She expressed her condolences to Sarah's family and friends and acknowledged the impact on women nationwide who fear for their safety while walking alone. The Government has requested an independent review by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary into the events and will continue to support victims through measures like the Domestic Abuse Bill, which includes a new offence of non-fatal strangulation and extends powers against stalking and female genital mutilation. Additional funding of £40 million is being provided for victims during the pandemic and beyond, along with public awareness campaigns such as #ItStillMatters. Patel also reiterated her plea to avoid large gatherings due to the ongoing pandemic.
David Lammy
Lab
Tottenham
Question
MP David Lammy raised concerns about the effectiveness of police action in preventing such tragedies. He questioned why the Government had not taken more proactive steps to prevent Sarah's death and how they planned to address similar incidents in future.
Minister reply
The minister responded by emphasising that while operational independence is crucial for the police, the Government remains committed to ensuring public safety through legislative measures like the Domestic Abuse Bill. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to combat gendered violence and promised transparency regarding the events at Clapham Common.
Kerry McCarthy
Lab
Bristol East
Question
MP Kerry McCarthy inquired about specific steps being taken to address street harassment and ensure women’s safety while walking alone. She also questioned why the Government was pursuing restrictive measures against protests.
Minister reply
The minister acknowledged the importance of addressing street harassment and reiterated that the Government's priority is public safety during the pandemic, which includes enforcing regulations on gatherings. She stated that they are considering all options to improve women’s safety while walking alone.
Rachael Maskell
Lab
York Central
Question
MP Rachael Maskell questioned why the Government had not acted sooner to address systemic issues related to violence against women and girls, despite knowing about them for years. She also asked how the Home Secretary planned to implement a new strategy on tackling such crimes.
Minister reply
The minister noted that significant actions have been taken through legislation like the Domestic Abuse Bill but acknowledged ongoing challenges in addressing all forms of abuse. She committed to developing a comprehensive strategy based on public input and pledged to bring it forward later this year.
Torfaen
Question
Thomas-Symonds expressed concern over the Government's response to violence against women and girls, criticising the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill for not addressing street harassment, domestic abuse, or rape adequately. He also questioned the Home Secretary's communication with the Metropolitan police regarding recent protests.
Minister reply
The Home Secretary thanked Thomas-Symonds but disagreed with his tone. She acknowledged her government’s work on violence against women and girls through legislation like the Domestic Abuse Bill. The Minister defended the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill as addressing rape sentencing and reversing previous policies that allowed early release for sexual offenders.
Theresa May
Con
Maidenhead
Question
May thanked the Home Secretary for her remarks and expressed support for the Domestic Abuse Bill. She emphasised the need to change attitudes towards violence against women, including dealing with perpetrators and teaching young men respect.
Minister reply
The Home Secretary paid tribute to May's work on domestic abuse. She agreed that legislation alone is insufficient and stressed the importance of cultural and behavioural changes in respecting women and girls.
Angela Crawley
Lab
Leytonstone
Question
The murder of Sarah Everard has truly shocked and saddened us all. Criticisms have been raised about the policing actions during a recent protest, questioning whether they were necessary and proportionate. The MP urges for the chief inspector’s review to focus on human rights as well as policing matters.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the tragedy and supports the right to protest as fundamental to democratic freedoms. She confirms that the legislation will update the Public Order Act 1986, but avoids pre-judging the upcoming debate.
Dehenna Davison
Con
Barking
Question
The MP pays tribute to Sarah Everard and expresses support for listening to all voices—both men and women—to ensure collaborative efforts towards safety. The 78,000 responses to the reopened consultation are highlighted as an unprecedented response.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees on collective effort and encourages continued contributions from Members of this House.
Yvette Cooper
Lab
Pontefract and Castleford
Question
The MP raises concerns about repeat perpetrators of abuse and stalking, urging the Home Secretary to consider measures proposed previously. She seeks support in bringing in strong measures against such repeat offenders.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the critical issue and confirms that measures will be reviewed and engaged with during the ongoing violence against women and girls consultation.
Philip Davies
Con
Shipley
Question
The MP proposes practical measures including increased CCTV coverage, maintaining DNA databases, increasing sentences for sexual assaults and rapes, and stopping early release of dangerous criminals to make streets safer.
Minister reply
The Minister thanks the MP and confirms work on these issues through the Safer Streets fund and encourages further contributions in the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill Committee.
Clapham
Question
The MP criticises the police's high-handed approach to a recent vigil, suggesting it got the balance between public safety and protest rights wrong. She questions the appropriateness of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.
Minister reply
The Minister recognises the constituents' concerns and confirms an independent review by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary. She reiterates that the bill is a manifesto commitment and not ill-conceived.
Pauline Latham
Con
Mid Derbyshire
Question
The MP welcomes the announced rape and sexual assault review, stressing the importance of every part of the criminal justice system playing its role. She raises concerns about rape within marriage in cases involving individuals married under 18.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees on the need for a comprehensive approach to the issue, including work from police through conviction stages, and mentions ongoing efforts such as the crime and justice taskforce led by the Prime Minister.
Edward Davey
Lib Dem
Kingston and Surbiton
Question
I send my condolences to the family and friends of Sarah Everard. The scenes during the peaceful vigil were disgraceful, especially with women being arrested. Did the Home Secretary speak to the Met Commissioner in advance about guidance?
Minister reply
The scenes were upsetting; I had discussions with the Metropolitan Police Commissioner on planning and preparation for the vigil. Legal action was underway before, so there were various plans. I emphasise that people laying flowers locally is important.
Question
Like colleagues across the House, my condolences are extended to Sarah Everard's family. Does my right hon. Friend agree that all reports of abuse must be rigorously investigated and that there will be confidence in the justice system after the consultation on VAWG strategy?
Minister reply
Absolutely right; we need a look at the entire system, root causes, and how to tackle them. The proposals are based on driving better outcomes for victims.
Question
I join others in extending my condolences. Does handing over more powers to the police when they have misjudged a situation seem foolish? Will she stand with women arrested and call for withdrawal of fixed-penalty notices?
Minister reply
Disagree with her, but will discuss further on Second Reading of the Police Bill. The proposals support managed protest in the right way.
Chingford and Woodford Green
Question
The murder was shocking; I received a note about what happened to a female police officer on that night. Both sides should dial it down, not raise the temperature.
Minister reply
Shameful events, but both sides should be careful of passing judgment without evidence.
Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Question
Sent sympathies to the family. Proposals for a domestic abuse register were rejected by Government; now they recognise that current system is failing women. How will funding account for Wales?
Minister reply
We want consistency of approach across devolved Administrations and will work extensively with colleagues on this issue.
Question
Sent sympathies to the family. It is regrettable that Opposition demands resignation; what is she doing to ensure facts are understood before premature conclusions?
Minister reply
Commissioned the inspectorate of constabulary for full report and recommends colleagues not prejudge until hearing the facts.
Question
Offers condolences to the family of Sarah Everard and criticises the Metropolitan Police's actions at a vigil on Clapham common, asking for a report and swift action. Points out that good policing was absent from the event.
Minister reply
Commissioned an inspectorate of constabulary report to be concluded in two weeks; reflects on the peaceful eight hours before the disruption and emphasises the need to see the review's findings.
Question
Asks why the Opposition opposes provisions for increased sentences for rapists, highlighting a contradiction.
Minister reply
Points out that the Bill will increase sentences for sexual offences and is key to the Government's manifesto; criticises the Opposition's position.
Question
Questions whether manhandling people can make them feel safe, suggests the police powers Bill could lead to more scenes like those on Clapham common.
Minister reply
Urges for judgmental statements until a review is complete; acknowledges changes in protest tactics and looks forward to debating the issue.
Question
Asks the Home Secretary to work with Members to ensure that legislation protects peaceful protests.
Minister reply
Agrees to continue engaging with colleagues on the matter; acknowledges difficulties during the pandemic and hopes for easier times moving forward.
Question
Asks if the Home Secretary agrees with the Joint Committee that laws need clarification for protests during the pandemic.
Minister reply
Thanks the right hon. lady, acknowledges the shock and grief around Clapham common's events; looks forward to discussions about easing restrictions.
Question
Raises concern over 'ACAB' signs at the vigil and asks for confirmation that legislation will protect women from harm.
Minister reply
Thanks the hon. lady, affirms plans to protect women and girls through strategies; awaits review results.
Question
Asks how the Home Secretary will ensure that women can come forward with confidence for justice.
Minister reply
Thanks Kent police for their work in the investigation, affirms commitment to protecting women and girls; invites cross-party efforts.
Question
Asks if it's time to decriminalise freedom of protest during the pandemic.
Minister reply
Acknowledges sentiment but emphasises following pandemic guidance, open to further discussion.
Vicky Foxcroft
Lab
Lewisham North
Question
Peaceful assembly must be an absolute right in this country, and the actions of the police on Saturday were deeply troubling. I would like to highlight the use of kettling, in particular. Many disabled people and disabled people’s organisations have long raised concerns about the use of this controversial crowd control tactic, which in the past has been used for up to 10 hours, with serious potential health implications. What does the Home Secretary have to say to the many disabled people who fear this disproportionate policy?
Minister reply
In response to operational tactics such as kettling, the police make judgments based on assessments of situations and events. The needs of disabled individuals can be met through collaboration with police, and organisers often engage with them beforehand.
Question
I would like to put on record my sympathies to the family and partner of Sarah Everard... I look forward to my right hon. Friend’s strategy later this year, but will she consider, as part of that, introducing legislation that might address the issue?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend raises an important point regarding public street harassment aimed at women and children. We will consider all options in our upcoming VAWG strategy.
Question
On Sunday, I shed a tear... May I ask what the Home Secretary is going to do to change the toxic culture we have that diminishes and minimises women’s experience, and to challenge the whole spectrum of men’s behaviour so that my daughter and all young women can grow up without living their lives in fear?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady has an opportunity to join us in contributing to our VAWG strategy. We need collective effort to change cultural norms and behaviours regarding violence against women.
Question
I thank my right hon. Friend for her statement... Does she agree with me and my constituents that it is frankly absurd for the Labour party to call for tougher sentences against rapists while, in the same breath, opposing the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill, which delivers exactly that?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend sums up perfectly; I completely agree with her sentiment.
Tonia Antoniazzi
Lab
Gower
Question
Last week on the Armed Forces Committee we heard about prosecuting crimes, including rape, through the military courts... What discussions has the Home Secretary’s Department had about that attitude towards victims of male violence, and does it reflect a general attitude to women that we saw on Saturday on Clapham Common?
Minister reply
First, no it does not reflect a general attitude to women. Our Minister with responsibility for safeguarding has done extensive work on this issue with our colleagues in the Ministry of Defence.
Caroline Nokes
Con
Romsey and Southampton North
Question
May I express my condolences... Can my right hon. Friend assure me that those women are going to have their voices heard on the justice taskforce, which looks suspiciously like an all-male room?
Minister reply
I thank my right hon. Friend for her points and assure her that the crime and justice taskforce includes many agencies and parties involved, including the first female Metropolitan police commissioner.
Kim Johnson
Lab
Liverpool Riverside
Question
I would like to add my thoughts... Does the Home Secretary agree with me that if you are black, disabled or a trans woman you are disproportionately more likely to be a victim of violence? That is not emphasised in the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. What steps is she taking to rectify that?
Minister reply
We want to prevent anyone from becoming a victim of crime; it should be our collective imperative.
Question
May I, too, send my deepest sympathy... New Government research has identified viewing pornography, particularly violent pornography, as an influential factor in harmful sexual behaviour towards women and girls. How will my right hon. Friend reflect that finding in new Government policy?
Minister reply
My right hon. Friend raises a powerful point about links between behavioural aspects and pornography. I am keen to discuss it further as part of our work to protect women and girls from violence.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Question
My heart goes out... In light of the recent horrific events, and the continued failure to prevent violence against women and girls, will the Government commit to adopt my Bill and to end some of the continuing injustices against women?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady knows that the Law Commission is considering this area; I will work with her and report back on this whole area.
Question
I am proud of a Government who, since 2010... Does my right hon. Friend agree that our landmark Domestic Abuse Bill puts women at the front and centre of this Government’s policymaking when it comes to tackling violence against women and girls?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is right; I pay tribute to everyone who has worked on that landmark Bill, which will lead to protection for more women and children from domestic violence.
Rupa Huq
Lab
Ealing Central and Acton
Question
The tragedy that befell Sarah Everard is a cue for rethinking so much... May I ask that in all new housing developments, and in the reappraisal of the low-traffic network road changes that are due, consultative consideration of women’s safety and fear of crime is mandated?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend makes an important point about designing out crime from public spaces; a lot of work is taking place to keep the public safe.
Luke Evans
Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Question
I have been contacted by several constituents... What assessment has my right hon. Friend made about the fact that this is an operational issue for the Met, versus the fundamental framework of the law? Taking that forward, will she reassure my constituents that the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill will protect the rights of those protesting and the right of the police to be safe?
Minister reply
I thank my hon. Friend for his questions; we will discuss the Bill shortly.
Angela Eagle
Lab
Wallasey
Question
We now live in a country where domestic violence has soared but prosecutions have plummeted... Is she proud of it?
Minister reply
I refer the hon. Lady to my earlier comments, including disagreement with her points.
Stella Creasy
Lab Co-op
Walthamstow
Question
A quarter of all police forces are either already actively recording or trialling recording where crimes are motivated by a hatred of somebody’s sex or gender. Will the Home Secretary and her Government drop their opposition to amendment 87B to the Domestic Abuse Bill tonight in the House of Lords in order to require that all police forces follow this best practice in England and Wales?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady will have to follow the debate in the other place later on. As she will well know, there is extensive debate and discussion on this issue.
Question
Does my right hon. Friend agree that the Domestic Abuse Bill showcases this Government’s commitment to protecting and listening to victims of domestic abuse, who are mostly women, so that we can tackle this abhorrent crime effectively?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is absolutely right, and I will not go through the measures I touched on earlier. Clearly, the Domestic Abuse Bill is a landmark Bill that will absolutely change outcomes on domestic abuse and increase support to women who have been victims of it.
Helen Hayes
Lab
Dulwich and West Norwood
Question
On the same day that the suspect in the Sarah Everard investigation was arrested, UN Women published survey results showing that 97% of women aged 18 to 24 have experienced sexual harassment. Will the Home Secretary work with the Metropolitan police to mandate that every officer serving undertakes training on misogyny and sexual harassment?
Minister reply
When it comes to police training, I think it is important to reflect on a lot of the work that is already under way across all police forces, not just the Metropolitan police force. The College of Policing has extensive work taking place in this area.
Question
Does my right hon. Friend agree that preventing violence against women is partly about what we do with boys? That means teaching them that what is often depicted on TV, online and in video games is not acceptable behaviour.
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is absolutely right, and that is another Bill that will come to the House in due course. This is about cultural aspects and the behaviours we inculcate in our children.
Dawn Butler
Lab
Brent East
Question
Sir Patrick Vallance said that “it is clear in the SAGE papers…that outdoors is much lower risk than indoors” and that “it is difficult to see how” outdoor events can cause a spike. Can I ask the Home Secretary who she is consulting when suggesting additional, draconian police powers?
Minister reply
I refer the hon. Lady to comments that I have made extensively this afternoon about covid restrictions, but also the fact that, when it came to the events on Saturday—the vigil—extensive dialogue had taken place between the Metropolitan police and the organisers.
Question
Does she not also agree that it is quite wrong to conflate that with the perfectly reasonable provisions in the Bill that will be debated later this afternoon, which will prevent disruptive protests of all kinds?
Minister reply
That is absolutely right, and I thank my hon. Friend for his point and comments. There is, conveniently, far too much conflation taking place when it comes to examples of protest.
Question
Does the Home Secretary agree that it is equally important that Government policy secures women’s safety in private settings, including women’s refuges? And does she agree that Government should prioritise upholding single-sex spaces, services, provision and roles for women and girls where single-sex provision is permitted under the Equality Act 2010?
Minister reply
The hon. and learned Lady makes important points about violence that takes place at home and the need to safeguard women. This is exactly what this Government have been doing—particularly over the now soon to be 12 months under coronavirus and this pandemic—through the money that we have been putting in place for refuges.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Question
Homicide rates among women have shot up under this Government. What urgent action will the Home Secretary take to convince us that they take violence against women and girls seriously?
Minister reply
No one should be patronised or silenced, which is why we have reopened the VAWG consultation, and 78,000 people have responded since 6 pm on Friday evening. I urge others to come forward as well.
Shadow Comment
Nick Thomas-Symonds
Shadow Comment
The Shadow Minister, Nick Thomas-Symonds, expressed condolences and highlighted the need for significant action against violence against women and girls. He criticised the Government's response as insufficient, pointing out that recorded rapes doubled between 2014 and 2019, while only a tiny fraction of perpetrators are charged. The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill was deemed to be lacking in addressing such issues adequately. Thomas-Symonds challenged the Home Secretary to clarify certain points regarding communications prior to events at Clapham Common and questioned the Government's prioritization of measures like anti-statue vandalism over tackling domestic abuse and rape.
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