PROSECUTION guidelines that could see rape victims forced to testify in court will be debated in Holyrood.
The “reluctant complainers” policy would see rape complainants having to give evidence if prosecution is deemed to be in the public interest, even if they have tried to withdraw from the case.
Former Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale proposed the members’ debate, and called the guidelines “massively retrograde”.
She told the Guardian: “This is very technical stuff but the blunt truth is that women could be compelled to give evidence, and if they refuse, could face prosecution.
“The crown should be talking about strategies to improve the court system rather than turning the spotlight back on to women.”
Solicitor General for Scotland Alison Di Rollo is to go before the Scottish Parliament to defend the guidelines for a second time, after she answered questions last week also.
She refused to rule out that rape victims could face imprisonment for ignoring the witness warrants, but said the policy would only be used in exceptional circumstances.
Campaigners warn the move is likely to deter women from reporting rape and sexual assault, and that it distracts from other, more effective measures in tackling the issues,
A Crown Office spokesperson said: “Circumstances vary greatly and it would not be appropriate to lay down a rule that proceedings can never be taken if the complainer is reluctant. However, we do expect this would and could only arise in the most exceptional of circumstances.
“The new guidance will make sure that if the complainer is reluctant, the reasons for this will be fully explored and all reasonable steps taken to re-engage the complainer before a decision is taken about the case.”
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