MP backs call for new stalking law
9:42am Wednesday 8th February 2012 in News
SOUTH Swindon MP Robert Buckland has backed the findings of a report calling for a major change in the laws on harassment and stalking. Mr Buckland was a member of the Indepen-dent Parliamentary Inquiry into Stalking Law Reform, whose recommendations were published yesterday.
The report concludes that the existing laws on harassment and stalking are not fit for purpose and that fundamental reform is needed.
The report’s recommendations call for an offence of stalking to be introduced into legislation in England and Wales without delay.
Robert was one of 15 members of the inquiry panel. He said: “We heard harrowing evidence from victims of stalking who described their lack of confidence in the criminal justice system and fears their complaints were not taken seriously.
“We were told that unless there was intervention, behaviour escalated and resulted in violence and even death.
“It was clear the law was inadequate and needed reform.”
