Blunkett unveils victims' bill

The home secretary has announced new measures to compensate victims of crime.

 

David Blunkett was piloting the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Bill through its second reading in the Commons on Monday.

 

And following a public consultation since the publication of the Bill earlier this year he unveiled plans to make offenders pay more towards compensation and support for sufferers.

 

Under the legislation a surcharge will now be placed on all criminal convictions, fines and fixed penalty notices.

 

Driving offences will be exempt except for "serious and persistent" transgressions.

 

Blunkett also announced the introduction of a right for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority to recover money from offenders.

 

Overdue

 

The home secretary claimed the reforms were "long overdue".

 

"The effect of crime on the lives of its victims can be devastating," he said.

 

"This Bill is a crucial part of the government's determination to put victims at the heart of the criminal justice system.

 

"It will help put law-abiding citizens first and ensure that victims have the justice system on their side.

 

"It represents the most radical overhaul in domestic violence legislation for 30 years."

 

He added that the extra funds would be channelled through charities and the voluntary sector to organisations already helping victims.

 

"A victims fund will put more money into services such as practical support, information and advice to victims of rape and sexual offences, road traffic accident victims and those who have been bereaved as a result of crime," Blunkett said.

 

"We want to provide more funding to the voluntary sector and communities to meet local needs.

 

"I have already dedicated £4 million from the proceeds of crime to this fund.

 

"The measures we are announcing today will further help to ensure that offenders contribute more to supporting victims."