Oral Answers to Questions

Oliver Colvile Excerpts

Monday 23rd January 2017 Commons Chamber

[Ben Howlett (Bath) (Con)]

9. What steps she is taking to ensure that all forms of domestic abuse are recognised and investigated.

[Oliver Colvile (Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport) (Con)]

17. What steps she is taking to ensure that all forms of domestic abuse are recognised and investigated.

[The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Amber Rudd)]

The Government are absolutely committed to tackling all forms of domestic abuse. This morning I chaired the domestic abuse national oversight group, which oversees the delivery of important recommendations from Her Majesty’s inspectorate of constabulary. Victims who experience extreme psychological and emotional abuse can now bring their perpetrators to justice. The College of Policing has updated its guidance, and every police force now has a domestic abuse action plan.

--- Later in debate ---

[Oliver Colvile]

May I add my thanks to my right hon. Friend for her answer?

Operation Encompass, which helps fight domestic violence through the school system, began in my constituency. Will my right hon. Friend join me in praising the retired sergeant David Carney-Haworth, who set up Operation Encompass, and will she ensure that it is spread to as many police forces across the country as possible?

[Amber Rudd]

I am of course delighted to join my hon. Friend in congratulating David Carney-Haworth on his work. My hon. Friend has brought to our attention a really good example of local practice, and it is local practice, local initiative and local momentum that will really help the women and girls we want to reach.