Anonymity of Suspects Bill

Damian Hinds Excerpts

Friday 28th October 2022 Commons Chamber

[The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Damian Hinds)]

I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Christchurch (Sir Christopher Chope) on bringing this important subject to the Floor of the House. I also thank and commend all colleagues who have taken part in the debate, including my hon. Friends the Members for Hastings and Rye (Sally-Ann Hart) and for Bosworth (Dr Evans).

In this debate, we have heard about the real human consequences of some of the issues involved, and it is right and proper that we take time on a Friday to debate these matters. The underlying issue is one on which views do vary. My hon. Friend set out his arguments very helpfully. He has drawn attention to the great harm that can be done where people who are investigated by the police in connection with a crime are then not charged or identified as being under suspicion. Although it is often in the particular context—

The debate stood adjourned (Standing Order No. 11(2)). 

Ordered, That the debate be resumed on Friday 18 November.