Labour: On the Side of Vulnerable Victims - Straw
The Labour Party, today, has demonstrated its commitment to protecting the vulnerable and supporting victims of forced marriages. The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act, to protect victims of forced marriage and prevent others from the same fate, comes into force on 25 November 2008. On top of current criminal protection, the Act will provide robust civil protection for vulnerable people threatened with forced marriage and enhance the rights of people from across different communities in the UK who are affected by this problem. The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act comes into force on White Ribbon Day which brings together men and women of many different communities and backgrounds to raise awareness of domestic violence. Jack Straw MP, Labour’s Secretary of State for Justice said: “Today we are standing on the side of vulnerable victims, providing hope to what is often a desperate situation. It is fitting the law comes into force on White Ribbon Day - the White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort in the world of men working to end men’s violence against women. “As a Labour Government, we urge everyone to pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women. This is why the Forced Marriage Act enables anyone to apply for a Forced Marriage Protection Order on behalf of a victim, as victims may be unable to protect themselves. “We are determined to do everything we can to support victims of forced marriage, provide education to prevent others from becoming victims, and pull…
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