Victims and Courts Bill

Debate between Baroness Levitt and Lord Beamish

Committee stage
Wednesday 11th February 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Beamish (Lab)]

I am not opposed to consultation, but, I am sorry, this Government are hiding behind consultation. Once the consultation is finished, we then need action, but that is not happening, not just in this area but in a whole host of other areas.

[Baroness Levitt (Lab)]

I do not accept that. My noble friend should think carefully about making accusations such as that.

The point is that we are looking at the evidence that we have received in order to evaluate it to ensure that we make evidence-based and informed changes. The Government are considering this matter carefully. I am not announcing another review or another consultation; I am simply saying that we are looking at the evidence that we have.

I hope that my noble friend Lady Chakrabarti will hear the words that I am using. She knows that I understand the problem and that I am not unsympathetic, but we need to find a way that does not create a lot of unintended consequences.

--- Later in debate ---

[Baroness Levitt (Lab)]

I entirely understand the point that the noble Baroness is making, and I pay great tribute to her expertise. She can imagine just how popular I would be if I gave that undertaking from the Dispatch Box right now. All I can say is: leave it with me.

[Lord Beamish (Lab)]

Having been a Minister myself, I know that the Minister can do that tonight. She knows what will happen if she does not bring it forward: an amendment will be tabled, and it will get passed.

[Baroness Levitt (Lab)]

I think I have already said that I am listening carefully.