FUTURE OF HELP FOR VICTIMS AND WITNESSES

Early day motion 187, tabled 13 June 2012 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 55 members.

That this House expresses deep concern about the Government's proposals to break-up the help on offer to victims and witnesses of crime as set out in its recent consultation Getting it Right for Victims and Witnesses; questions whether the Government's plans to hand responsibility for commissioning of these services to police and crime commissioners is in the best interests of victims and witnesses; notes the research undertaken by Victim Support which reports that at least 21 million could be diverted from frontline help for victims if the proposals go ahead; further notes that local accountability is already being achieved through a consistent and well respected service; and calls on the Government to reconsider its proposals.

Signatures by party: Labour 41, Liberal Democrat 8, Plaid Cymru 2, Conservative 1, Green 1, Respect 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.