Access to Justice for Victims of Crime 2022-07-07
2022-07-07
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question stems from concerns over the Criminal Prosecution Service's role in ensuring justice for crime victims.
I am concerned about the effectiveness of the CPS in securing access to justice for crime victims. What recent assessments have you made?
The Government is increasing funding for victim and witness services to £192 million by 2024-25, representing a 92% uplift from core budgets in '20-'21. A significant portion of this has been allocated to local PCCs for commissioning support services.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not directly address the effectiveness assessment requested but mentioned funding increases.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Victims and their families face challenges such as cases not reaching court or trials being adjourned, leading to dissatisfaction with the system.
While appreciating additional resources for victims, many still feel inadequately supported. What specific actions will be taken to address this issue?
The Government has allocated £150 million for victims and witnesses in 2021-22, including funding for ISVAs and local community-based sexual violence services.
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Assessment & feedback
Mentioned existing measures but did not provide specific actions to address current dissatisfaction.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The draft Victims Bill presents an opportunity for improving consistency and standardization of support services for victims.
Thanking the Attorney General, I note that while significant efforts have been made to support victims, inconsistencies still exist. Will you commit to carefully considering our committee's recommendations on this bill?
The Government is introducing measures in the Victims Bill to improve victims' experiences, including ensuring their voices are heard both before and after charges. We are also proud of the victims code implemented last year.
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Assessment & feedback
Acknowledged the draft bill but did not commit to specific implementation of recommendations.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns about the Attorney General's plans to shrink the state, particularly regarding staffing levels in the CPS and backlogs in court cases.
Despite your leadership priorities not mentioning tackling crime, what percentage of staff cuts do you plan for the Crown Prosecution Service? How will this affect current court backlogs?
While I won't engage in petty politics, I am proud of our financial support for the CPS, including increasing prosecutor numbers. There have been 115 more RASSO-trained prosecutors added to work specifically with victims.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address staffing cuts or backlog impacts but discussed recent hires.
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The Scottish Government's investment and Crown Office budget increases are highlighted as a model to follow.
Welcoming the Scottish Government's investments, does she agree more funding should be available across the UK for better access to justice? Will you consider this in your prime ministerial manifesto?
There has been significant investment over the last two years to tackle violence against women and girls, including localised data dashboards. We are proud of the victims code with 12 rights for victims now enshrined in statute.
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Assessment & feedback
Focused on recent improvements without committing to increased funding based on Scotland's model.
Response accuracy