Stevenson Welcomes Victim's Rights Bill Consultation

Banffshire & Buchan Coast SNP MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed the Scottish Government’s consultation on their proposed Victims’ Rights Bill.

The proposed Bill aims to introduce new measure to help further protect those affected by crime and to allow further openness and transparency between victims of crime and the Scottish justice system.

Commenting Mr Stevenson said:

“The role of the Scottish justice system is to protect the victims of crimes as well as ensuring those who perpetrate crime are held to account for their actions.

“The Scottish Government has already made improvements to the way victims of crime and witnesses are treated by the judicial system. Courts can now award higher compensation payments and the Government also continues to support the work of Victim Support Scotland.

“The consultation contains a wide range of proposals that aim to further improve the experience of the justice system for victims and witnesses and offer them additional support. It aim to make sure victims, witnesses and their families feel better prepared to give evidence, ensure that they are more informed about any court proceedings and better ensure that victims and witnesses needs remain a priority.

“I would urge as many people as possible in Banffshire & Buchan Coast to respond to the consultation, as their opinions could be vital in ensuring that this bill goes further to protect those affected by crime.”