Member

I also want to raise victims’ concerns about the process. I, too, met staff at the WAVE trauma centre last week. I heard very powerful stories from victims, and they put forward particular concerns about the anonymity of their evidence and privacy. I know that some of this is addressed in the Bill, particularly in new clause 41, which strengthens the privacy provisions that already exist. These include provisions for witness anonymity and safeguards before sensitive material is published, which gives victims control over how and if their personal statements will be published. New clause 41 strengthens those protections by allowing the restrictions to be in force while applications to protect people’s identity or evidence are pending. I think that gives a bit of extra reassurance to victims and family members of victims, but perhaps the Secretary of State could say how the amendments will protect victims and their families who want to maintain their anonymity in the process. Could he say a little more about how he will ensure that that is the case?