Meeting of the Parliament 23 April 2024
I can give clarification to Ms Grahame that the pilot, whatever form it takes, is to look at rape and attempted rape cases. I have already given commitments to the committee to put more detail in the bill on the criteria for and the operation of the pilot.
The bill has been shaped by cross-sector consideration and collaboration, and I am absolutely committed to taking the same approach as it progresses through Parliament. I will work constructively with members from across the chamber, with our stakeholders and partners and with victims and survivors to deliver the transformational change that is required. I am sure that members will approach the bill in the same spirit in which we have thus far debated and discussed it in the committee process, which I believe has been to the highest possible standard.
I know that the issues that the bill deals with are significant and complex. As parliamentarians, we are making decisions that will have far-reaching consequences, but I believe that the case for change is clear and that the time for change is now, and that it is incumbent on us to work together to deliver the justice system that our society needs and deserves.
Giving evidence to the committee, Lady Dorrian said:
“if we do not seize the opportunity to create the culture change from the ground up ... there is every risk that, in 40 years, my successor and your successors will be in this room having the same conversation.”—[Official Report, Criminal Justice Committee, 10 January 2024; c 22-23.]
I will continue to work with members, and I invite them to work with me on this landmark bill.
I move,
That the Parliament agrees to the general principles of the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill.