Written question asked by Andrew Dismore (Labour) on Monday, 30 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 1 February 2006. It was answered by Hazel Blears (Labour) on Monday, 6 February 2006 on behalf of the Home Office.

Antisocial Behaviour Orders

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what services are available for victims of antisocial behaviour where an order is subsequently made in (a) the community and (b) court.

Answer: The Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 introduced special measures for witnesses in proceedings for antisocial behaviour orders (ASBOs). These measures were introduced to address concerns about the protection of vulnerable and intimidated witnesses. The measures include screening witnesses from the defendants, giving evidence through video link or in private, and the use of video recorded evidence. This makes it easier for witnesses to give evidence in the Crown and magistrates court during an ASBO hearing. Antisocial behaviour response courts have been established in magistrates courts sitting in their civil capacity to ensure that witness issues are addressed and the respect action plan announced plans to establish similar arrangements for county courts. There are also plans to introduce the same measures for ASBO victims in civil hearings as for victims in criminal cases. The Home Office has issued a good practice guide to practitioners on how best to support a witness.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 47975; 442 c926W;442 c926W
Session: 2005-06
Subjects: Courts Anti-social behaviour Intimidation Witnesses Victims Anti-social behaviour orders
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk