§ Mrs. Betty WilliamsTo ask the Solicitor-General, if she will make a statement on measures being taken to improve the conviction rate for those guilty of rape. [141780]
§ The Solicitor-GeneralWe are concerned that rape should be properly investigated and effectively prosecuted.
To make sure that happens, the Crown Prosecution Service are working more closely with the police; ensuring victims are helped to give their evidence, including by video link so that they do not have to attend court; and by ensuring that every case is handled by a specialist rape prosecutor.
The law on rape has recently been strengthened and clarified as part of the Sexual Offences Act. Progress on tackling sex offences will be assisted by ministers across all departments, including myself, working together as part of a new ministerial, group which will meet shortly.