Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Vulnerable Victim Support

Thursday 24 September 2020 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The Domestic Abuse Bill includes measures to protect victims, such as domestic abuse protection orders and preventing cross-examination by abusers in family courts.
  • CPS data shows an increase in domestic abuse cases moving through the system in Lancashire.
  • Prosecutors apply for special measures to support and protect vulnerable victims from contact with perpetrators during trials.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Antony Higginbotham
Justice & Courts Women & Equalities
Context

There has been an increase in domestic violence cases during lockdown, and it requires significant courage for victims to come forward.

Question

It takes enormous courage for victims to come forward. How can I reassure my constituents that they will be protected and supported by the CPS and Government when they come forward?

Answer from Michael Ellis

The Domestic Abuse Bill includes measures to protect victims, such as domestic abuse protection orders, preventing cross-examination by abusers in family courts, and a statutory definition of domestic abuse. Recent CPS data shows an increase in domestic abuse cases moving through the system in Lancashire.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address how to reassure constituents specifically

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Q2 Antony Higginbotham
Crime & Law Enforcement Justice & Courts
Context

Crime rates are lower in Carshalton and Wallington, but domestic abuse is higher than the London average. The issue has worsened due to covid restrictions.

Question

What actions can my right hon. and learned Friend take to ensure that vulnerable victims of domestic violence are supported and protected from intimidation during trial?

Answer from Michael Ellis

Domestic abuse is a high priority for the CPS, and prosecutors apply for special measures to ensure that vulnerable victims are supported to give evidence and protected from contact with perpetrators.

Answered
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Q3 Elliot Colburn
Crime & Law Enforcement Justice & Courts
Context

Crime rates are lower in Carshalton and Wallington, but domestic abuse is higher than the London average. The issue has worsened due to covid restrictions.

Question

What actions can my right hon. and learned Friend take to ensure that vulnerable victims of domestic violence are supported and protected from intimidation during trial?

Answer from Michael Ellis

Domestic abuse is a high priority for the CPS, and prosecutors apply for special measures to ensure that vulnerable victims are supported to give evidence and protected from contact with perpetrators.

Answered
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