§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department for what reasons the proportion of victims very or fairly satisfied with their treatment by the criminal justice system changed between 2000 and 2002. [130484]
§ Paul GogginsThe proportion of victims satisfied with their treatment by the criminal justice system has remained at around 58 per cent. since 2000, although this year's figure has shown a small rise, to 59 per cent.
We recognise that there is more to do to improve support and services for victims, and to ensure that their interests are fully taken into account at every stage of the criminal justice process. We detailed our plans in the national strategy for victims and witnesses, published in July. Among the proposals highlighted in the strategy was new legislation, to be brought forward as soon as Parliamentary time allows, which will include the first statutory Code of Practice for victims. The Code will list the minimum services which criminal justice agencies should deliver, and give victims the right of complaint to the Parliamentary Ombudsman if they are not received.