Findlay calls for crime victims to have input in plea deals

Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay is pushing for victims of crime to have their voices heard on plea deals offered to perpetrators.

He said during First Minister’s Questions on Thursday that he has tabled amendments to the Scottish Government’s Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill.

The legislation has been developed to improve the experience of witnesses to and victims of crime and is currently being assessed by the Criminal Justice Committee.

In Scots law, prosecutors are able to make deals with the accused that will see them plead guilty, often to a lesser charge, to avoid the case going to trial and secure a conviction if it is believed to be in the public interest.

But Mr Findlay said: “This practice can result in very serious charges being watered down or dropped altogether, even when the evidence is overwhelming.

“Victims are routinely not told or consulted – this is not justice.”

He said he has been working with a group of survivors of domestic violence who he said “suffered from these secretive plea deals”.

He added: “This week, I have submitted amendments to the Government’s victims Bill on their behalf.

“This would give victims a voice in the process or, at the very least, to know what is happening.”

He went on to ask if the Scottish Government will work with him and back the changes to the Bill.

Responding, First Minister John Swinney said: “We will, of course, consider the amendments that Mr Findlay has put forward… and consider the content of those amendments as the committee and as Parliament looks at the contents of the Bill.”