Outcry at Minister’s backing for ban on naming sex suspects
NEW Justice Secretary Robert Buckland was under fire last night after suggesting “reputable” sex offence and fraud suspects should be granted anonymity until they are convicted.
Mr Buckland, a former barrister, welcomed a campaign backed by Sir Cliff Richard to ban the naming of suspects until they are charged.
However, he found himself at odds with Downing Street and his own department officials who dismissed his suggestions.
Mr Buckland appeared to suggest those with reputations to protect should remain anonymous, while apparently hinting that withholding names would be less justifiable for those with “previous convictions”. He said: “Let’s say you are a reputable local businessperson who is accused of fraud. Your good name is going to be really undermined by this mere accusation.
“You are a person of good character. That might be a meritorious case for anonymity.”
But he added: “Let’s say you are a person with a list of previous convictions. You’ve committed offences. There is intelligence out there that suggests that other victims might come forward.
“Is that a case where anonymity should be automatic?”
Mr Buckland immediately drew criticism from the Criminal Bar Association for potentially creating a “twotier” system for people who are able to avoid publicity because of their reputation.
Downing Street also hit back, with a spokesman saying: “It is very clearly not Government policy.”
And a Ministry of Justice source also confirmed such changes were not Government policy and said no officials were working to alter the rules.
Police, prosecutors and victims’ groups argue that naming suspects can help detectives gather evidence.
Victims Commissioner Dame Vera Baird said: “There is sometimes a public interest in disclosing the name of an arrestee prior to charge if there may be a prospect of other complainants stepping forward.”
Sir Cliff, backing a petition by campaign group Falsely Accused Individuals For Reform, warned “people can be evil enough to lie”.
The singer, 78, was publicly named over a false allegation against him after a police raid on his home in Berkshire in 2014. The raid was broadcast by the BBC even though Sir Cliff was never arrested.
Chris Henley, chairman of the Criminal Bar Association, said: “The law must be applied equally whoever you are.”