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

Victims Surcharge

Question: It has of course been extremely difficult to secure prosecutions in certain areas of criminality, especially domestic violence and rape. I welcome the implementation of the victims surcharge. Does the Solicitor-General agree that we will be able to expand the network of voluntary organisations that support victims and encourage them to come forward, given that fear and the possibility of stigma sometimes prevent people from bringing cases to trial?

Answer: My hon. Friend is right. The proper long-term funding of witness care units will help witnesses and victims to come forward, especially regarding cases of rape. The extra funding for independent domestic violence advisers, who we hope to have in place in 64 sites where we have established specialist domestic violence courts, will help victims of domestic violence. Securing funding for victims organisations is an important step that I hope will enable those who support victims to know that funding will be in place in the longer term. Those who offend will be in a position where they will make a contribution to supporting victims.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 459 c1031
Session: 2006-07
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Domestic abuse Fines Rape Voluntary organisations Surcharges Victim support schemes
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk