Westminster Hall Debate I Matt Bishop MP I Guilty Plea Reductions

“We need to listen to those victims who feel the process has allowed the person who abused them to keep them frightened and uncertain.” Watch my contribution to a debate discussing guilty plea reductions in controlling and coercive cases. I ask three questions: 1. Will the Government look specifically at how late guilty plea reductions operate in controlling and coercive cases—including removing the reduction where defendants initially plead ‘not guilty’ and later change their plea? 2. How will the Government ensure that attempts to continue abuse during criminal proceedings are dealt with and identified early? 3. Will the Minister look at the information and support that victims and survivors receive when a sentence is passed? Trigger Warning: Please take care when watching, as themes of abuse are discussed throughout.