§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what financial aid was given by his Department in the last 12 months to organisations that assist victims of domestic violence. [98453]
§ Mr. BoatengThe Home Office has lead responsibility for violence against women, the Government's plans set out in "Living Without Fear" and the co-ordination of policy against domestic violence. But most central Government funding for the victims of domestic violence remains channelled through budgets which reflect the responsibilities of other Departments or local agencies.
The Home Office is increasing the funding of Victim Support, which supports all victims of crime, including those who have experienced domestic violence, from £12.7 million in 1998 to £19 million by 2001. In addition, at least £6 million is being made available from the Crime Reduction Programme for projects addressing domestic violence, rape and sexual assault.