Violence against Women and Girls Prosecution Rates 2023-02-01
2023-02-01
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Only 3% of rape cases lead to charges, while Avon and Somerset police have tripled charge rates. A local pilot for specialist rape courts is in progress.
What steps she is taking to increase the proportion of cases relating to violence against women and girls that are prosecuted? Can the Attorney General confirm when a decision on further roll-out of specialist rape courts will be made?
Evidence is being gathered from our three specialist courts but I should emphasise that every Crown court tries rape cases and will benefit from the learning. The south-west, as outlined, is showing new ways of working with police and providing training to first responders.
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Assessment & feedback
The decision on further roll-out of specialist rape courts was not confirmed
Emphasised The Benefits Of Existing Arrangements
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Prosecution rates for rape against women and girls are too low nationally.
What impact does my right hon. and learned Friend believe that Operation Soteria will have on prosecuting cases of rape?
Operation Soteria aims to deliver cultural transformation in investigation, ensuring victims are well-supported and cases thoroughly investigated through joint working between police and CPS.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
A man received 140 hours of community service after assaulting his wife twice.
What steps will the Attorney General take to ensure harsher sentences are given to those guilty of inflicting violence on women?
Sentencing is a matter for independent judiciary, Ministry of Justice and Sentencing Council. The Government desires to do all they can to make sure victims get justice.
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Assessment & feedback
Steps to ensure harsher sentencing were not specified
Referred To Other Bodies' Responsibility
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Joint working between police and CPS is seen as necessary.
Does the Attorney General agree that joint working between police and CPS is crucial from the outset of investigations? Is there any update on its roll-out nationally?
I agree that joint working is essential. In Leeds, a gatekeeper works between lawyers and victims to ensure proper investigation from the start.
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Assessment & feedback
Updates on national roll-out were not provided
Emphasised Importance But No Updates
Response accuracy