Violence against Women and Girls Prosecutions 2023-03-30
2023-03-30
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
29% of Crown court cases are open for more than a year, and there is a record backlog of sexual assault and rape cases with frequent postponements.
I am concerned about the significant backlog in Crown court cases which has resulted in a large number of sexual assault and rape cases being postponed. This situation impacts the ability of the Crown Prosecution Service to prosecute rape cases effectively. What is the Solicitor General's view on this issue?
The time between charge and completion of Crown court cases is being reduced, although it remains too long. Victims are encouraged to stay within the criminal justice process through support by independent sexual violence advisers, whose guidance will be placed on a statutory footing.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific impact of backlog on prosecution rates for rape cases was not addressed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Government statistics show a significant backlog of sexual assault and rape cases in Crown courts.
Statistics indicate that 29% of Crown court cases are open longer than one year, leading to frequent postponements of rape trials. How does the Solicitor General believe this backlog affects the CPS's ability to prosecute rape cases effectively?
I spoke to a local chief Crown prosecutor who mentioned that last year, suspects charged with adult rape in the CPS south-west area more than doubled. However, it remains correct that time between charge and completion is still too long.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific impact of backlog on prosecution rates for rape cases was not addressed
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Operation Soteria is a significant initiative aimed at improving prosecution rates.
The House wishes to see higher prosecution rates for those who rape women and girls. Given the importance of Operation Soteria, how does the Solicitor General believe this operation will affect current prosecution rates?
Operation Soteria has made a significant difference and is linked to an area where it was founded. The volume of adult rape suspects charged in the last year has more than doubled.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific impact on prosecution rates not fully detailed
Response accuracy