Oral Answers to Questions

Julie Hilling Excerpts

Tuesday 13th November 2012 Commons Chamber

[Chris Grayling]

We have introduced longer determinate sentences to deal with the most serious offenders and, unlike the previous Government, we have introduced a “two strikes and you’re out rule” for the worst sex offenders, to ensure that if they offend for a second time, they will go to jail for the rest of their lives.

[Julie Hilling (Bolton West) (Lab)]

5. What progress he has made on reform of the criminal injuries compensation scheme.

[Rosie Cooper (West Lancashire) (Lab)]

13. What progress he has made on reform of the criminal injuries compensation scheme.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Mrs Helen Grant)]

The criminal injuries compensation scheme 2012 was approved by the House yesterday. Having already been approved by the other place, it now has the approval of Parliament and will be implemented by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority on 27 November this year.

[Julie Hilling]

Given that the scheme will no longer pay out for criminal injuries such as a broken jaw, and that the awards for more serious injuries are not being increased, will the Minister confirm that the spin is just not true and that the changes represent a cut of £50 million for innocent victims?

[Mrs Grant]

Absolutely not. The aim is to provide proper compensation for those who have suffered serious criminal injuries. When the injuries are less serious, prompt, practical victim service provision will be provided, which is what victims say that they need. In addition to that, up to £50 million will be provided for victims from the victim surcharge.