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Briefing on the data extraction power clauses in Part 2 Chapter 3 of the Police, Crime, Courts and Sentencing Bill

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Victims’ Commissioner briefing on the data extraction power clauses in Part 2 Chapter 3 of The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill (PDF, 364.0 KB)

Victims of rape are being forced to choose between justice and their right to a private life. Rape victims are facing unjustified demands for downloads of personal data and cases are frequently dropped if victims do not sign over their data.

The PCSC Bill affords police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) through the police wide-ranging powers to wholesale access of victim data. Any safeguards for victims are relegated to guidance, which current practice demonstrates is largely ignored.

The Victims’ Commissioner has prepared a detailed briefing document on the issue (14 pages), including proposed amendments to the Bill.

  • This document is aimed at peers in the House of Lords.
  • It was shared with peers in September 2021.
  • The Victims’ Commissioner also produced a shorter, more accessible version of this document (3 pages).