At the recent Third Reading and Report Stage of the Victims and Prisoners Bill this month, Richard was pleased to support several amendments which strengthen the rights of victims of sexual violence including a presumption not to disclose counselling records of victims of rape and sexual assault in an investigation unless ordered to by a judge.
Richard Fuller MP said:
As well as supporting these amendments, I also proposed my own new clause which would provide victims of rape and sexual assault with independent legal advice and representation in the specific circumstances where it is required to uphold their rights.
This includes excessive requests for a victim’s personal data throughout an investigation.
Research shows that a disproportionate investigation effort is put into testing the credibility of a victim’s account rather than undergoing a thorough investigation of a suspects' behaviour.
Independent Legal Advice and Representation has been successfully modelled in other jurisdictions such as Australia and, closer to home, Ireland.
Following a successful trial in Northumbria, this model can be rolled out at a reasonable cost to the taxpayer and will ensure the rights of victims of sexual violence are upheld, improving efficiency and confidence in the criminal justice process.
The Victims and Prisoners Bill makes provision about victims of criminal conduct and others affected by criminal conduct; about the appointment and functions of advocates for victims of major incidents; about the release of prisoners; about the membership and functions of the Parole Board; to prohibit certain prisoners from forming a marriage or civil partnership; and for connected purposes.
Richard's contribution to the debate can be watched at https://youtu.be/paI3mCLok9E
