Oral Answers to Questions

Simon Burns Excerpts

Thursday 16th October 2014 Commons Chamber

[Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con)]

4. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on tackling violence against women.

[Mr Simon Burns (Chelmsford) (Con)]

6. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on tackling violence against women.

[Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con)]

7. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on tackling violence against women.

--- Later in debate ---

[Nicky Morgan]

I agree with my hon. Friend on the need for a seamless support service for victims. We want victims to be absolutely at the heart of any cases that are brought. I cannot comment on individual cases, but, as my hon. Friend has said, he has raised the issue with my right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General and I hope he will supply him with details. I am happy to have a conversation with the Attorney-General about any points that can be raised and learned from such cases.

[Mr Simon Burns]

Will my right hon. Friend join me in praising the excellent work done by the three rape crisis centres in Essex? What further support do the Government plan to give to those who are the victims of sexual assault or rape in the UK?

[Nicky Morgan]

The new rape action plan will aid the Government’s drive to ensure that every report of rape is treated seriously and every victim given the help they deserve. I recently announced two new support centres, which will open in Grantham and Crawley, offering victims access to expert advice, support and counselling. That means that this Government have met their commitment to open 15 new support facilities across the country in this Parliament.