Specialist rape courts to be rolled out across UK to hold more perpetrators to account

Every Crown Court in England and Wales will get at least one courtroom specifically set up to hear rape and serious sexual offence cases over the next two years, helping to hold more perpetrators to account, the government said in a statement.

According to the plan, rape cases will be prioritized in the courts, reducing uncertainty and delays for survivors, with specialist upgrades introduced, including private waiting rooms and entrances for victims.

"New approach will put victims front and centre of the criminal justice system," it noted.

Announcing the plan, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said that for too long, victims of rape and serious sexual offences have felt "let down by our justice system."

"Prosecution rates for rape remain shamefully low, with many victims waiting years for justice," he underlined.

He went on to say that in addition to the new courtrooms for specialist rape and serious sex offences are "major changes" that would "rebalance" the scales of justice and put victims first.

"These changes are long overdue and will make a significant difference, but focusing on prosecution alone will not be enough," said the British premier.

He added: "So as well as ensuring victims get justice, we will step up action to prevent these horrific crimes from happening in the first place."