Wolverhampton MP holds debate on tackling violence against women and girls

Warinder Juss, MP for Wolverhampton West, has secured the debate in the House of Commons for tomorrow (Wednesday) afternoon.

Mr Juss, who was a lawyer before entering parliament, said both charge and conviction rates for violence against women and girls remained low.

In 2024, only 2.8 per cent of reported rape or sexual assault cases in the West Midlands resulted in a charge or conviction. 

He said more than 3,500 people are currently awaiting trial for adult rape cases, with the average time from report to verdict now exceeding six years. 

This had not been helped by a 22 per cent real-terms cut in the justice budget since 2010, and added that 43 per cent of courts in England and Wales had closed.  

One in four trials now failed to go ahead as scheduled, often due to a lack of available barristers or judges, said Mr Juss.

He said recent measures, including a regional strategy, increased legal-aid funding, and extended Crown Court hours were all welcome, campaigners said they don’t go far enough. 

Among the recommendations being put forward are the creation of specialist rape and serious sexual offence courts, more investment in legal aid and training, and wider access to independent advisers on the subject.

Mr Juss said: “The figures speak for themselves, our justice system is failing women and girls in the West Midlands. 

"Survivors are being retraumatised by delays, under-resourcing, and a lack of specialist support.

"We urgently need a justice system that is equipped, compassionate, and committed to delivering justice.”