'Milestone moment' as Scottish domestic abuse protection powers published
The proposals, which have been planned by the Scottish Government for a more than a year, have been hailed as a “milestone moment" for victims of domestic abuse.
The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Bill, if passed by Holyrood, will see police and the courts given the power to take domestic abusers out of homes and ban them from re-entering.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdSocial landlords will also be given the power to end or transfer a tenancy of a domestic abuse offender to prevent homelessness for any victims.
Dr Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, said the moment was a “milestone” for victims.
She said: “The publication of this Bill is a milestone moment for women, children and young people experiencing domestic abuse who for years have asked us why it should be them, rather than their abusers, who have to leave their homes, pets and belongings to seek safety.”
Justice secretary Humza Yousaf added: “This new Bill will apply to all those at risk of domestic abuse, but we know women are disproportionally affected, representing 80 per cent of victims.
"A person’s home should be a place of safety and the new orders being introduced will give victims of domestic abuse space and time to address their longer term safety and housing situation.
“The Bill builds on our legislation that came into force last year, giving police and prosecutors greater powers to target those who engage in coercive or controlling behaviour.”