Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Violence against Women and GirlsHate Crimes: Successful Prosecutions

Thursday 6 January 2022 · 4 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Matt Western raised concerns about low conviction rates for rape cases in Warwickshire compared to prosecution rates.
  • Dame Vera Baird's criticism of the situation in Warwickshire was disputed, stating that about 10% of police referrals lead to CPS charging with some signs of improvement.
  • Bob Neill highlighted the importance of investing in quality prosecutors and technology to address delays and improve the handling of rape and serious sexual offences.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington
Crime & Law Enforcement Women & Equalities
Context

The MP raised concerns about the low conviction rates for rape cases in Warwickshire, citing a CPS report indicating a 47% conviction rate compared to a prosecution rate of 1.3%. This is seen as particularly concerning given criticism by Dame Vera Baird, the Victims' Commissioner.

Question

I am concerned that despite the introduction of landmark legislation and strategies, the conviction rates for rape cases in Warwickshire are alarmingly low at 47% compared to a prosecution rate of 1.3%, according to CPS data. Given this situation, how is it possible to claim progress when such figures suggest an effective decriminalisation of rape?

Answer from Suella Braverman

We understand that we need to improve in charging rape and RASSO outcomes. The CPS has a 12-month domestic abuse programme to narrow the disparity, and there are some early signs of improvement with a slight increase in national charging rates for rape. We have seen initiatives like Operation Soteria and Operation Bluestone changing the way police and prosecutors work to better tackle such offences.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The Minister did not provide specific steps or commitments to address the low conviction rate in Warwickshire specifically, beyond general improvements and initiatives.

How: Under Review, Working With Partners

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Q2 Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington
Crime & Law Enforcement Women & Equalities
Context

The previous question raised concerns about the low conviction rates for rape cases in Warwickshire. Dame Vera Baird criticised these figures as indicative of 'effective decriminalisation of rape'. The MP seeks clarity on this stance.

Question

Dame Vera Baird rightly criticised the situation in Warwickshire where the CPS data shows a 47% conviction rate against prosecution at 1.3%, suggesting an effective decriminalisation of rape. Is she correct?

Answer from Suella Braverman

No, she is not right. We need to do better in charging rape and RASSO outcomes but about 10% of police referrals make it to the CPS and there has been a slight increase nationally in CPS charging rates for rape. The CPS and criminal justice partners are committed to improving the situation with initiatives such as Operation Soteria and Operation Bluestone.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The Minister did not confirm or deny Dame Vera Baird's statement, instead focusing on general improvements without addressing the specific criticism.

How: Under Review, Working With Partners

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Q3 Bob Neill Con
Crime & Law Enforcement Women & Equalities
Context

The previous discussion highlighted the need for better quality prosecutors in rape cases. The MP seeks further clarity on specific measures being taken to improve this situation.

Question

Does my right hon. and learned Friend agree that it is important to invest in ensuring we have the best-quality prosecutors for rape and serious sexual offences, as well as manpower and technology to deal with delays in disclosure? We also need a whole-systems approach to avoid attrition before cases ever get to the charging stage.

Answer from Suella Braverman

My hon. Friend is right, we have additional funding dedicated to improving resources in dealing with RASSO. We are bolstering specialist RASSO units, training new prosecutors, and appointing experienced staff into RASSO posts. Initiatives like Operation Soteria and Operation Bluestone are being rolled out more widely throughout the CPS areas.

Answered
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Q4 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
Crime & Law Enforcement Women & Equalities
Context

The previous discussions highlighted concerns about successful prosecutions for violence against women and girls. The MP seeks clarity on measures to protect and restore confidence among women.

Question

What steps are being taken across the UK to ease fear among ladies who feel vulnerable, protect them and ensure they feel safe in society?

Answer from Alex Chalk

We have rolled out an increased number of independent sexual violence advisers and a victims code, because complainants need to know their rights and what support is available. This helps in restoring confidence among ladies ensuring they feel safe on the streets.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The Minister did not provide specific steps or commitments beyond general measures, without concrete details.

How: Under Review, Working With Partners

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