Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told the BBC that budget cuts are partly to blame for record low in rape convictions.
Every year, approximately 128,000 people become victims of rape and attempted rate. Despite this shockingly high figure, less than 20% of victims report the crime. Of these 20%, only 1.6% of rapes result in conviction.
Buckland, along with other ministers, says they are deeply ashamed by the low conviction rates. Buckland also promises to “do a lot better”. Labour ministers are accusing the Government of “failing rape victims on every front”, and say that the new review is not enough.
A report, outlining the Governments new methods of managing allegations of rape, say the Government will now focus more on the suspect. When an item, such as a mobile phone, is taken away to gather evidence, it must be returned within 24 hours.
The review is receiving mixed reviews from those who read it. A rape charity said the report fails to identify the big commitments needed to help a rape victim experiences. The report is a “failed opportunity”.
Mr Buckland was asked whether Government budget cuts to the legal system were to blame. He said many public services have “made big choices” over the past decade. He said the Government are now seeking the “necessary investment”. However, he also believes that it is “culture, not just money””.
Why are rape convictions at a record low?
The report argues that the failings are due to a “strained relationship” with a lack of communication between the departments. This, in conjunction with a lack of victim support and increasingly invasive personal data requests.
Another problem that the police face now, which they didn’t before, is the sheer volume of evidence to analyse. The introduction of phones with high quality camera’s and things going viral on social media makes it harder for prosecutors. It can also make it more difficult for the police and potential future victims.
Mr Buckland argues that convictions have spent too many years focusing on victims, rather than circumstance. Relating the conviction to that of a robbery, he confirms people never ask why they left the house when they are robbed. This is not the case with victims of rape. Dame Vera Baird says many victims retract statements “unwarranted and unacceptable” intrusions into their lifestyle.
The new plan includes the introduction of pre recorded video evidence to save people from the trauma of court. This pilot, in its trial stages, will only be available in several courts for now. If successful, it will be a wider rollout.
The law commission will also investigate ‘rape myths’ and examine whether a victims history will be used in evidence going forward. The report is hoping that rape rates will go to “at least” the levels of 2016. Holding themselves accountable, the Government will now publish statistics to monitor progress.
While Amelia Handy, the policy lead for Rape Crisis in England and Wales, believes the new report is promising. She also thinks the report is a missed opportunity. She instead believes independent research into who does and doesn’t report sexual offences to the police is needed.
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