Crime: Victims

(asked on 2nd February 2017) - View Source

Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether victims of crime will be invited to submit details of their experiences as part of the review of the victims code.


Answered by
Phillip Lee Portrait
Phillip Lee
This question was answered on 9th February 2017

As we announced in the House of Lords last month, we will set out our strategy for victims within 12 months, and will take the appropriate action to give effect to the strategy, including bringing forward any appropriate primary legislation.

We have made some positive steps to improve the experience of victims of crime, to reduce unnecessary stress and lessen the emotional turmoil of attending court. For example, this year we began rolling out pre-trial cross-examination for vulnerable victims and witnesses in the Crown Court. However more can be done to further strengthen the rights of victims.

We are considering how compliance with the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime (Victims’ Code) might be improved and monitored. We are also exploring how those responsible for delivery of rights and entitlements might be better held accountable for any failings.

On 6 February I met with the Victims’ Panel which has been re-established so that we can learn from the experiences of victims of crime. I also have regular meetings with the Victims’ Commissioner, Baroness Newlove, about her work in keeping under review the operation of the Victims’ Code. Plans to engage with and obtain views of victims and victims’ groups are being developed.

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