There is currently no specific criminal offence of domestic violence in the UK.  Instead offenders are prosecuted for crimes such as rape or assault, whilst in many cases previous abusive behaviour is not taken into account.

Caroline is co-sponsoring a new Bill, presented in Parliament today by Plaid Cymru MP Elfyn Llwyd.  It would create a legal framework around domestic violence.   It would mean patterns of abusive behaviour – not just isolated incidents – could be taken into account by the police and courts. 

She is also co-sponsoring an Early Day Motion which supports a new law, and raises concerns about low levels of reporting of, and convictions for, domestic abuse.

Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, said:

“Domestic violence is a terrible crime, and we need far stronger action to increase rates of reporting and conviction.   In addition to  better training for everyone in the criminal justice system, a change in the law is part of the solution.

“This Bill would create a much-needed legal framework around domestic violence, crucially ensuring that patterns of abusive behaviour could be considered. 

“Parts of the US have passed similar laws and seen dramatically increased rates of reporting of abuse and rates of convictions

Notes to Editors

1)      In the year ending 31 October 2013, Sussex Police received 17,899 incident calls relating to allegations of domestic abuse, of which 6,097 resulted in specific criminal offences being recorded.

2)      Full text of  Early Day Motion:

That this House believes that the level of domestic abuse in the UK is unacceptable, that the number of victims reporting incidents is extremely low and that the number of alleged perpetrators convicted is unsatisfactory; further believes that all criminal justice professionals should receive training on the subject of domestic abuse; and asks the Government to consider introducing a specific law of domestic abuse, which would take into account courses of conduct and repetitive abusive behaviour.