Shadow Attorney General and Newcastle North MP, Catherine McKinnell, has joined her frontbench Labour colleagues in backing the United Nations Campaign for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, as shocking national statistics show that women are eight times more likely than men to experience sexual assault.

The UN Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, taking place today (25th November), is an international event to highlight and combat violence against women and girls. In supporting the campaign, Catherine is demanding a world without violence against women and girls and committing to challenge the attitudes and norms that allow this to exist.

The British Crime Survey for England and Wales 2015 highlights that there are still very real concerns around gender-based violence. The survey shows not only an increase in reports of sexual assaults, but also that women are far more likely than men to experience this type of crime.

In the period 2014/15, Northumbria Police received 460 reports of sexual assaults on women, compared to 51 against men.

Catherine said:

‘Whilst we have made significant progress in recent years in encouraging both women and men to report abuse – and seen improvements in the way in which this is handled by the criminal justice system – the scale of this problem is shocking and just not acceptable in the 21st century.

‘We’re really fortunate to have a local Police and Crime Commissioner in Vera Baird who has prioritised tackling violence against women and girls, but I’m really concerned that this vital work is under ever-increasing pressure in the face of continued budget cuts – not just to the police, but also to the Crown Prosecution Service.’

Sarah Champion MP, Shadow Minister for Preventing Abuse and Domestic Violence, said:

‘All violence is abhorrent. But these statistics demonstrate the persistent discrimination and gender inequalities that women face. We must commit to take action – violence is not inevitable, it can be prevented.

‘Police forces have made vast improvements in encouraging victims of crime to come forward and report, however I have a real concern that the police cuts proposed in today’s Autumn Statement will undo this good work.’

Kate Green MP, Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities, said:

‘These statistics are a reminder of how important services for victims of domestic and sexual violence really are.  This Government is overseeing the closure of many shelters for women, removing the last line of hope and safety for victims of violence and abuse.

‘Women refuse to continue to bear the brunt of Government cuts at the expense of their safety and well-being.’

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