Leader of the Liberal Democrats, , has called for the definition
of ‘aggravated offences’ to be extended following hate crime
statistics published today reveal hate crime has more than
doubled in England and Wales since 2013/2014.
said:
“The Tories cannot hide from these galling statistics. Their
Government must redouble its efforts to prevent hate crime, which
can inflict lasting psychological damage, divide communities and
beget further violence.
“The Liberal Democrats are therefore calling for the definition
of ‘aggravated offences’ to be extended, so that it covers hate
crimes based on gender, sexual orientation and disability. That
would send a clear message that no form of hate crime can be
tolerated, and ensure that all victims are protected.”
ENDS.
Notes to editors:
‘Hate crime, England and Wales, 2017 to 2018’ stats can be found
here.
The statistics reveal recorded hate crimes are up 17% from
2016-17 to 2017-18 (from 80,393 to 94,098). Hate crime has more
than doubled since 2013/2014. This breaks down as follows:
Race hate crime: 71,251, up 14% year-on-year
Sexual orientation: 11,638, up 27%
Religion: 8,336, up 40%
Disability: 7,226, up 30%
Transgender: 1,651, up 32%
has written an extended piece
on this issue for National Hate Crime Awareness Week, which runs
from 13th to 20th October. You can find it here.
