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Flagship Scottish government justice reform bill which will scrap not proven verdict to go before MSPs today
The bill includes reforms like a specialist sexual offences court and Suzanne's Law, which affects parole decisions if killers withhold victim body locations, aiming to enhance victim support.
- On September 16, 2025, the Scottish Parliament will hold a vote on a major justice reform bill that aims to eliminate the not proven verdict and introduce significant changes to the legal system.
- This bill follows concerns about the not proven verdict's confusion and disproportionate use in rape cases, amid low conviction rates and extensive campaigning by victims and families.
- The legislation proposes a clearer two-verdict system, a two-thirds jury majority requirement, a specialist sexual offences court, a victims commissioner, and Suzanne's Law affecting parole decisions.
- Justice Secretary Angela Constance described the bill as a groundbreaking measure that would significantly improve the experience of victims and witnesses, while Scottish Tory critics argue that further changes are needed to provide stronger protections for victims.
- If passed, the bill will mark significant justice reform in Scotland amid ongoing debate over amendments and concerns that the bill falls short of fully meeting victims' needs.
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10 Articles
Flagship Scottish government justice reform bill which will scrap not proven verdict to go before MSPs today
The Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill faces its final vote at Holyrood, with a lengthy session of more than 160 amendments to be debated ahead of a decision.
·United Kingdom
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources10
Leaning Left2Leaning Right1Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 33%
C 50%
R 17%
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