Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Brian Iddon (Labour). It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Thursday, 26 April 2007 on behalf of the Solicitor General.

Victims Surcharge

Question: What assessment he has made of the likely impact of the victims surcharge on prosecutions.

Answer: It is expected that the victims surcharge will generate up to £16 million to provide better services for the victims of crime, including £3 million for witness care units to encourage and support victims and witnesses in giving evidence, £3 million to provide independent domestic violence advisers, and other funding to help victims organisations. Supporting and helping victims and witnesses within the criminal justice system is an important aspect of getting more successful prosecutions.

Secondary information