I applaud the Spanish government for making a solid commitment to tackling violence against women across the European Union as it prepares to take on the EU presidency.

The Spanish proposals would ensure that a restraining order issued in one country would be recognised in other member states, thus protecting women across Europe.

It's about time too, as Spanish Interior minister Alfredo Rubalcaba revealed that the issue had not been raised during his three years experience of European police and justice council meetings.

1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in the UK during their lifetimes, and last year local charity RISE was contacted by between 800 and 1,000 women in Brighton and Hove alone needing help.  

I'm committed to making sure these issues are dealt with both on a local and European level.

 Violence against women must not be allowed to stand.