‘We want to ensure criminals have a prominence, accountability and a profile’ says Chalk on Victims and Prisoner’s Bill

The Victims and Prisoners Bill was read for a second time, gaining support across the board from MPs. Although some expressed concerns about certain areas of the Bill, it generally was supported.

The Bill was created to help “victims of criminal conduct and others affected by criminal conduct; about the appointment and functions of individuals to act as independent public advocates for victims of major incidents; about the release of prisoners; about the membership and functions of the Parole Board; to prohibit certain prisoners from forming a marriage or civil partnership” (GOV.UK).

Alex Chalk, the new Justice Secretary, said:

“Gone are the days when it was thought completely reasonable for a victim to arrive at court, give evidence, and then have to rely on the media to find out whether the defendant has been convicted.”