§ Mr. WareingTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to increase the protection available to women against violence and the threat of violence. [30257]
§ Mr. MacleanThe response to violence against women involves a number of Government Departments, whose work is co-ordinated at ministerial level. Effective action also requires the commitment and involvement of local agencies, working together to develop local preventive strategies, and to provide help and support to women who are victims of violent or sexual crimes. In order to encourage an effective co-ordinated response by local agencies, the Government published an inter-agency circular on domestic violence in August 1995. In addition, wide-ranging advice on personal safety is contained in the Home Office booklet "Your Practical Guide to Crime Prevention", a copy of which is in the Library. The booklet also contains information on what men can do to help women feel more secure.
We will continue to take measures to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice; that victims receive the necessary emotional and practical support; and that steps are taken, through education and community initiatives, towards prevention in the long term.