Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Oliver Heald and Stephen Doughty

Tuesday 26th March 2013 Commons Chamber

[The Solicitor-General]

These are important matters and I will pass the hon. Gentleman’s comments on to Treasury Ministers. It is important that this matter is taken seriously and that there is proper enforcement. The Government certainly consider it to be an important matter.

[Stephen Doughty (Cardiff South and Penarth) (Lab/Co-op)]

7. What recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Crown Prosecution Service in rape prosecutions.

[The Solicitor-General (Oliver Heald)]

The conviction rate for rape cases has increased from 59.4% in 2009-10 to 63.4% in the current year.

[Stephen Doughty]

I thank the Solicitor-General for his answer. However, in 2011-12, the CPS took no further action in nearly half the cases that involved a rape allegation that were referred to it by the police. What reasons have the Law Officers identified for that?

[The Solicitor-General]

It is difficult to prosecute some cases. Often, it is the word of one person against the word of another. It is important in those circumstances to ensure that the victim who is the witness is properly supported. In addition, it is vital to have corroborative evidence and to use it effectively. It is sometimes said that there are a lot of incorrect allegations, but recent research by the CPS shows that there are very few cases of that sort. There has been a big improvement in the conviction rate, but we cannot be complacent. As the hon. Gentleman says, it is important to tackle this matter.

Royal Assent