Written question asked by Margaret Moran (Labour) on Wednesday, 20 February 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 22 February 2008. It was answered by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Tuesday, 4 March 2008 on behalf of the Home Office.

Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice when the courts will begin to make restraining orders on acquittal under section 12 of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004.

Answer: I have been asked to reply.Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Crime and Victims Act 2004 will enable courts to impose restraining orders on those convicted of any offence, and also on those who are acquitted for any offence. This will mean that restraining orders will be available in a much wider range of cases.We are currently working with the Ministry of Justice on the resource implications of this provision. When we have resolved this issue, we will be in a position to agree a timetable for the implementation of this section of the Act.

Secondary information