Forced marriages are a significant problem and current methods
of redress are not protecting victims.
Responding today to the Government announcement that it is
making forced marriage a criminal offence, Law Society President
John Wotton said he welcomed the move, but added that more needs to
be done: 'criminalising forced marriage is an important step
towards protecting young and vulnerable victims from their own
families.'
He said: 'Forced marriage is against the norms of a democratic
society based on respect for human rights.'
The Law Society also warned that tackling forced marriage will
require more than just criminalisation.
John Wotton added: 'Combating forced marriages will require more
than legislative change. Agencies, including the police, the Crown
Prosecution Service, schools and local authorities will need to
work together to enhance awareness of the issues surrounding forced
marriage. It is crucial that victims are protected through
education, early intervention, and a network of agency
support.'
Read the Law Society response to the Forced Marriage consultation
Ends
Notes to Editors
The Law Society is the independent professional body,
established for solicitors in 1825, that works globally to support
and represent its members, promoting the highest professional
standards and the rule of law.
Contact: Catherine Reed, The Law Society
+44 (0)20 7320 5902