During the Committee of the Whole House debate on the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill, Robin Swann MP made a case for his amendment to include Troubles-related sexual violence within the criteria for Legacy Commission investigations.

Currently, only incidents resulting in death or serious physical injury are eligible under the proposed legislation, with the Government suggesting victims seek investigations through the Police Service of Northern Ireland. With the PSNI already severely overstretched and under-resourced, Mr Swann made clear that this route is inadequate for helping these often-overlooked victims secure justice.

While the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Sir Chris Bryant, was not position to accept the amendment outright during the debate, he gave Mr Swann a direct assurance on his own behalf and that of the entire Ministerial team to work closely with him to ensure this crucial element of the Bill is addressed as the legislation progresses into the House of Lords.

Robin Swann MP, alongside Ulster Unionist Party peers, has welcomed this firm commitment and will take the opportunity to work directly with the Government to ensure victims’ voices are heard and that the legislation provides the best possible route to justice.

Highlighting the Government’s willingness to address the issue, the Secretary of State told Mr Swann and the House:

"I’m not sure we’ve quite got this right yet, so I’m quite happy to work with him on making sure we do get this right."

Speaking following the debate, Robin Swann MP said:

"The Secretary of State's commitment represents a firm undertaking by him and the whole Ministerial team. Victims of Troubles-related sexual violence have waited far too long for recognition and accountability. We will hold the Government to this pledge as the Bill continues its passage through Parliament."