Public's views sought on domestic abuser registration law

Bill would create a register of people who have been convicted of domestic abuse offences in the past.

PA Media

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Crime

Public views are being sought for a new law that would create a register for perpetrators of domestic violence.

The proposal was tabled by Scottish Tory MSP Pam Gosal and is currently being considered by the Criminal Justice Committee at Holyrood.

If enacted, the Prevention of Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Bill would create a register of people who have been convicted of domestic abuse offences in the past and requires abusers to keep the state informed of their addresses and passport details.

Among its other provisions, the Bill would also require schools to educate pupils on domestic abuse and relationships.

Committee convener Audrey Nicoll said: “Our committee is acutely aware of the devastating impact domestic abuse has on individuals, families and communities across Scotland, and the latest statistics on domestic abuse show the scale of this issue.

“This Bill presents a range of proposals aiming to prevent domestic abuse, including statutory data collection and improving school education, but we want to hear views from individuals and organisations on whether they support these proposals.

“We are particularly keen to hear from those with lived experience, their families and frontline professionals on if they agree with the proposals in this Bill, or if they feel other actions are required to tackle domestic abuse in Scotland.”

The call for views will close on September 15.