Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted a notable increase in antisocial behaviour affecting the town of Glastonbury, mentioning that St John’s church was forced to close its doors after gravestones were reportedly used as counters for drug transactions. Constituents Peter and Melanie reported being targeted with demands for money when collecting their pensions, leaving them feeling scared and overwhelmed.
The lawlessness is deterring tourists, and business owners have told me trade is suffering. As visitors start to arrive ahead of the Glastonbury festival, could the Prime Minister reassure my constituents that he will give the police the additional resource that they need to tackle this threatening and menacing behaviour, and to reduce the devastating crime wave sweeping through the town?
The hon. Member is absolutely right to raise this matter. Antisocial behaviour massively impacts on individuals and their communities, and that is why we are introducing 13,000 new neighbourhood police and giving them better powers—respect orders—so they can actually deal with what they see on the streets effectively.
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Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP referred to a recommendation made by the Prime Minister in his book on “Miscarriages of Justice”, which suggested ways of preventing such incidents and swiftly addressing them. However, in 2014, people who had been wrongly imprisoned were allowed compensation only if they could prove their innocence beyond reasonable doubt.
This ignored the decision of the court exonerating them, and meant that 93% of people who had been wrongfully imprisoned, and often had their lives destroyed, got no compensation whatsoever. This is an institutional miscarriage of justice. Will he instruct the Ministry of Justice to review this matter, and pay personal attention to getting this travesty of justice resolved?
The right hon. Member raises a really important issue that I am obviously aware of. It is right that victims of miscarriage can apply for compensation and appropriately do so, and I will take away what he says and have it looked at.
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