At First Minister’s Questions, Russell Findlay urged John Swinney to make late changes to the Victims’ Bill, so that it fixes flaws in the justice system.
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At First Minister’s Questions, Russell Findlay told the SNP leader that the bill, as it stands, was a let-down for victims and required changes.
The Scottish Conservatives have campaigned to give victims a meaningful voice and greater rights to basic information. We campaigned to end the not proven verdict, which is in the bill, and we welcome the fact that John Swinney listened to our concerns about the plan to remove juries in some trials.
The government has shifted position on the Victims’ Bill, and we welcome that, but they haven’t gone far enough.
The SNP must back my amendments so that crime victims are informed when secretive plea deals are struck between prosecutors and defence lawyers.
The SNP must also consider our amendments to launch a Scottish grooming gangs inquiry. Predatory criminals preyed on vulnerable girls. The government should want to properly examine this scandal – but have so far been resistant. They must change course before this bill is voted on by parliament.
This bill could give victims real transparency over plea deals. It could give victims much greater involvement in the parole process. It could put a spotlight on the grooming gangs scandal.
But, as it stands, it’s a let-down that won’t meaningfully change the justice system. It’s a victims’ law in name only.
