Oral Answers to Questions

Rosie Cooper Excerpts

Tuesday 13th November 2012 Commons Chamber

[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.

--- Later in debate ---

[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.

[Rosie Cooper]

In the consultation on the cuts to the criminal injuries compensation scheme, the Ministry of Justice promised to protect payments to the most vulnerable and seriously injured victims of crime. Why, then, will the most severe cuts affecting compensation for loss of earnings fall on more than 1,000 of the most seriously injured victims of crime and on the dependants of murder victims? Have not the innocent victims of crime suffered enough?

[Mrs Grant]

We are of course concerned about all victims. The scheme provides some payment in recognition of loss of earnings, but it was never designed to compensate for a full lifetime’s loss of earnings. Eligible applicants will receive a clear, predictable sum that will supplement other amounts that they may receive from other sources, such as state benefits. Our changes to the scheme should also allow victims to receive payments in a much speedier manner.

--- Later in debate ---

[Chris Grayling]

I am aware of the public concern. My hon. Friend will understand that I cannot comment about an individual case, and of course courts-martial fall under the remit of the Ministry of Defence. However, I would always hope that common sense will lie at the heart of every judicial decision in this country.

[Rosie Cooper (West Lancashire) (Lab)]

Will the Minister give an indication of the cut-off date for claims under the criminal injuries compensation scheme? Victims of crime and their representatives need to know that date. Will it be Friday 23 November? Will it be Monday 26 November?

[Mrs Grant]

It will be 27 November this year.