THE House of Lords has given their outright support to a change in law that would give victims of crime greater powers following the “Justice for Jane” campaign.
Barrowford nurse Jane Clough (26) of Barrowford was stabbed to death by her ex-partner Jonathan Vass 71 times. He had been released on bail despite being charged with raping Jane.
Her parents John and Penny Clough were yesterday in the House of Lords to hear the moving of the Bail (Amendment) Act which went unchallenged in the house following their 18 month campaign.
The amended law will allow victims of crime to appeal against a Crown Court judge’s bail ruling at the High Court through prosecutors.
It was described as “Jane’s Law” and will become law when the Legal Aid Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill receives Royal Assent which is believed to be around Easter time.
Speaking in the House of Lords, Lord Beecham said that if standing ovations were given, the Higherford couple would be greeted with one.
“I salute the dignity and courage with which they are not only bearing the loss of a beloved daughter in the most appalling circumstances but the way they have campaigned with support from a wide range of individuals, organisations and across party.”
John said: “We are still on cloud nine and can’t believe what we have achieved. We were only there because of the amount of public support that we received but we will keep speaking up for victims who don’t have a voice.
“It is such a small change in the law but we feel like it will make a huge difference.”
More coverage in Friday’s paper.