Violence against Women debate at Scottish Parliament

Monday, 12th December, 2011

Hollyrood News

On Thursday [8th December 2011] the Scottish Government debated violence against women. The motion from Michael Matheson emphasises the commitment to eradicate this, with a focus on prevention and early intervention. It also makes reference to the recent legislative framework, in terms of Forced Marriage etc. (Protection and Jurisdiction) (Scotland) Act 2011 and the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2011.  During the debate, Michael Matheson confirmed that Group on Men's Violence Against Women and Children has been re-convened and also that the document Safer Lives: Changed Lives produced in partnership with COSLA in 2009 will be refreshed, available Spring 2012. For 2011-12 £11.5 million was provided to combat violence against women and more than £44 million has been allocated over 2008-11 to tackle violence against women, including domestic abuse.  The debate emphasised the importance of the issue and gained cross party support, with contributions on the importance of involving men.