IT IS good news that the oppressive and authoritarian Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill has now been delayed.


This is a victory for everyone who has raised their voices to defend the right to protest
Behind the rhetoric and tough talking is a draft piece of legislation which says more about statues than about protecting women and girls against increasing levels of violence and abuse.


This Bill has caused widespread alarm even amongst senior Conservative politicians not just because it attacks the right of peaceful protest but also because it contains an explicit attack on the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.


The legal basis of this is so suspect it is likely to be challenged as being contrary to our Equality legislation and Human Rights law.


It singles out one group in our community, seeks to criminalise them and push them to the very margins of society.


In my view the local response to all this has been feeble.


The suggestion of ‘under cover police’ is hardly likely to instil confidence given that Sarah Everard was murdered by a serving Police Officer.


We will not get ‘Safer Streets’ by banner headlines or with a few more cameras.


I am calling for a proper engagement with all groups and parties to establish a Survivor Support Plan which puts those who have experienced abuse and violence at the heart of any solution.


Rape prosecutions are at a record low and until we can improve reporting and create the confidence that these cases will be pursued then this Government will continue to fail women.


PATRICK CANAVAN
Labour candidate for Dorset Police Crime Commissioner
Manor Road, Bournemouth