North-east MSP urges public to get behind proposals for a new Victims' Law

Ms White’s call comes after her Conservative colleague Jamie Greene launched his Member’s Bill consultation to overhaul Scotland’s justice system.

The wide-ranging plans for a Victims’ Law would make seven key changes including abolishing the controversial Not Proven verdict and giving all victims the opportunity to make statements in court. It would also implement Suzanne’s Law to prevent the release of killers if they refuse to say where a victim’s body is buried and ensure victims are always notified if no further action is taken on their cases.

Ms White says the Scottish Government’s “soft-touch” justice system often puts the needs of criminals rather than victims first, and says those who wish to change that should participate in the consultation.

She said: “This Bill could make a huge difference for the lives of victims and families across Angus. This consultation can be the starting point for overhauling Scotland’s justice system and fixing many flaws that have caused a great deal of pain to victims of crime across our region.

“All too often, the SNP’s soft-touch attitude has put the interests of criminals first, rather than those of the victims of crime. The Victims’ Law has many sensible proposals to change that and guarantee victims will always be put first. I urge any interested people to take part in the consultation as soon as possible.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​