MPs fight rape charge anonymity

Junior Justice Minister Crispin Blunt told MPs it would consult on the issue and dismissed suggestions it would deter victims from coming forward.

Shadow Minister Maria Eagle said that by singling out one offence for anonymity, Ministers were in "danger of sending a clear signal to victims: you will not be believed".

Labour's Geraint Davies (Swansea West) said granting anonymity to rape suspects would "tie the hands" of police who wanted to publicise suspected serial offenders in the hope of getting more victims to come forward.

Tory Robert Buckland (South Swindon) said focusing on rape had been a mistake and suggested broadening the plans to other crimes.