Highland MSP calls for Victims Commissioner

Highlands and Islands Labour MSP David Stewart put forward the case for the appointment of a Victims Commissioner in Scotland in a debate in the Scottish Parliament today

.

Mr Stewart previously launched proposals on a Victims Commissioner (Scotland Bill) in the last sitting of Parliament, however, the Bill was not successful as it ran out of time making it’s passage through the Parliament. The previous proposed Bill had secured the support of organisations such as Victims Support Scotland and Rape Crisis Scotland.

Speaking before the debate on 'Improving Services for Victims and Witnesses' today Mr Stewart said “ The idea of having a Victims Commissioner was proposed previously by Labour, but received no support from the SNP. Victims need to get the support and attention they deserve.

"A Victims Commissioner would have the ability to investigate, challenge and raise awareness of issues affecting victims of crime. Although this is a Government led debate, I am broadly supportive, because the important issue here is that victims are supported.

"However, I feel there is a gap in the Government's proposals and that is the omission of a Victims Commissioner. I will be asking them to seriously consider the appointment of such a role”.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.