Calls to back domestic abuse courts

Labour has called for crossparty support for its proposal to roll out domestic abuse courts across Scotland.

MS P swill debate a new domestic abuse law at Holyrood today which criminalises psychological abuse and coercive control.

Justice Secretary Michael Ma the son introduced the Domestic Abuse Bill to the Scottish Parliament in March and it is now at the sec- o nd stage. Labour’ s justice spokeswoman Claire Baker has lodged an amendment to the proposed legislation to end the“postcode lottery” over having cases heard by specialist domestic abuse courts.

There are currently domestic abuse courts in Glasgow and Edinburgh with cluster courts in Dunfermline, Livingston, Ayr and Falkirk.

Ms Baker said: “Across Scotland we currently face a postcode lottery when it comes to domestic abuse cases.

“We have seen a number of recent examples that indicate where your trial is heard makes a difference to the experience of the victim and the outcome of the trial

“I believe domestic abuse courts would provide greater confidence in justice being delivered for victims of domestic abuse.”

She added: “There is no place for domestic abuse in a modern and progressive Scotland. It is a scourge on our society and we must all work together to tackle it.”