As the new victims code is introduced, Harriett Baldwin seeks assurance from the Government that the voices of crime victims will always be considered ahead of those of violent criminals. Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): What steps he has taken to increase the voice of victims in the criminal justice system. [901033] The Minister for Policing, Criminal Justice and Victims (Damian Green): This Government are committed to putting victims first and we will give them a voice at every stage of the criminal justice system. The new victims code published on 29 October will provide extra support for victims and witnesses by offering them greater protection throughout the criminal justice process, a louder voice, and better redress. Victims will now be able to say whether they would like to read out their victim personal statement in court to explain how the crime has affected them. Harriett Baldwin: The Justice Secretary has been to Hanley Swan post office and met my constituents, Alan and Ros Davies, whose lives were devastated by a cruel attack from a prisoner on early release. Can he assure them, and other victims, that their voices and support needs will always be considered ahead of those of violent criminals? Damian Green: I am aware of the terrible consequences of what was a very serious crime. It is precisely for such victims of crime that we are now providing a voice in court. If they so wish, they can read a personal statement to the offender, looking the offender in the eye, and many victims have said that that would have made a very big difference to them in the past. | Hansard