17 June 2009

Scottish Labour’s campaign for a Victims’ Commissioner was stepped up as the party has asked for cash seized from crooks to pay for the post.

The post of Commissioner for Victim’s Rights is currently under consultation after being launched by Highland MSP David Stewart. Mr Stewart is writing to Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill ask if the Scottish government would use money recovered under proceeds of crime legislation to help pay for a victims' champion.

Mr Stewart has also called on the Cabinet Secretary to consider seconding civil servants that currently work on victims’ issues for the Scottish government to help keep costs down.

David Stewart said:
“The purpose of a victims’ champion is to ensure that victims are properly looked after and their concerns are addressed. Using money taken from offenders can assist in that.

“Also seconding civil servants who are already working on victims issues would help ensuring value for money and still making sure the commissioner has the tools for the job.

“Scotland has a commissioner for prisoners but no formal champion standing up for victims. I hope that we can get the position of victims’ commissioner up and running as soon as possible.

“My proposal for the Commissioner does not need to be hugely expensive. I want to see value for money and using proceeds of crime cash and seconding civil servants can make sure that victims of crime will get the champion they need and the taxpayer get the best deal possible.”