Victims Strategy

Debate between Lord Keen of Elie and Baroness Fookes

Monday 10th September 2018 Lords Chamber

[Lord Keen of Elie]

Again, I am obliged for the contribution from the noble Baroness, Lady Brinton, on this matter. While we may appear to be slightly behind schedule, I am relieved by her suggestion that time time has not been wasted. There is a concern to ensure that we take this forward as rapidly as possible but that we do it in the best-informed way possible. We will of course look at the scope of legislation that we will take forward to ensure that powers are available—whether they are direct legal powers or powers for the Victims’ Commissioner—which can be employed to ensure that all relevant parties are in a position where they are not only capable of enforcing the victims’ code but understand their obligation to do so as well.

[Baroness Fookes (Con)]

My Lords, reference has been made to an increase in the powers of the Victims’ Commissioner, about which I am delighted, but I am not clear what they will be. Could my noble and learned friend flesh it out for us?

[Lord Keen of Elie]

My Lords, the intention is that the consultation should do that, and I will not pre-empt the consultation process.