Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris has welcomed the landmark Domestic Abuse Bill as it passed its Second Reading in Parliament on Wednesday.

The Bill will introduce the first ever statutory definition of domestic abuse, recognising that abuse can take many different forms – including psychological, physical, sexual, economic and emotional.

It will strengthen protections for victims of domestic abuse, and crack down on perpetrators. Measures include banning abusers from cross-examining their victims in court and launching new protection orders to restrict abusers.

Commenting on the progress of the Bill, Rebecca Harris said:

“It is great to see the Domestic Abuse Bill progressing well within Parliament. I have spoken to constituents in Castle Point in the past who have fallen victim to such horrific abuse. This will be welcome news to them but also to those who feel unable to speak out about the domestic abuse they are suffering from.”

“I am pleased the Government is focused on cracking down on all types of crime and is not waiting until after Brexit is delivered to get started.”

The Minister for Safeguarding and Vulnerability, Victoria Atkins MP, said:

“I am delighted the Domestic Abuse Bill has passed its Second Reading – it represents a huge step forward in our response to domestic abuse and will help us to stop the cycle of violence.

“This legislation underpins this Government’s commitment to clamp down on all types of crime and improve the criminal justice system for victims.”