Violence Against Women 'Outrage' - McInnes

12.00.00am GMT Wed 31st Oct 2007

North East MSP Alison McInnes today backed a new campaign to put an end to violence against women in Scotland.

Signing the Women's Coalition 'Statement of Intent', McInnes said, "That violence against women persists in 21st Century Scotland is an outrage, and demands the mobilisation of resources and political will."

She added, "The battle is against an old fashioned chauvinism that many thought was already won, but it is a battle that must be waged vigorously."

Recent reports have revealed an increase in the number of sex offences in the North East, including a higher than average incidence of rape, with Grampian registering double the national average number of underage sex offenders.

McInnes flagged this as particularly concerning. "It seems that a worryingly high number of young men are engaging in violent behaviour towards women, suggesting that many more have bought into a disastrous view of 'masculinity' which entails disrespect for women."

She continued, "Though we can never be sure if such figures suggest a deterioration in the situation or an improvement in policing and reporting, they are simply too high."

The Women's Coalition are urging the Scottish Government to pledge its commitment to addressing violence against women over the next four years.