Lib Dems campaign to crackdown on alcohol fuelled domestic abuse

11.19.41am GMT Mon 22nd Dec 2008

Liberal Democrat Justice spokesperson Robert Brown has called for radical action by the Scottish Government to support the police crackdown on alcohol related domestic abuse over Christmas.

Police forces across Scotland have announced a crackdown on domestic abuse over the festive period.

Mr Brown is calling for measures such as the introduction of Alcohol Treatment and Testing Orders (ATTO) to support this nationwide crackdown. These could be used to help get people off drink in situations where they have become abusive to their families.

Commenting, Mr Brown said:

“Domestic abuse in any form is unacceptable.

“Unfortunately, over the festive period there is often a rise in cases of alcohol related domestic abuse. Liberal Democrats want to see the Government take radical action to support the police crackdown on alcohol related abuse over the festive season.

“I am calling on Ministers to introduce Alcohol Treatment Testing Orders to tackle drink related domestic abuse and crime. ATTOs would give sheriffs a new option to address low level alcohol crime in Scotland. These could be swiftly implemented and used as an alternative to a fine, jail term or community sentence order.

"This would help prevent courts from becoming a conveyer belt for reoffending and reduce overcrowding in prisons. ATTOs would establish a place where the authorities can intervene and help tackle the root cause of alcohol related abuse and crime.

"Recent figures have shown that incidents of domestic abuse are on the rise. This is unacceptable in 21st century Scotland. The Government must do all that they can to tackle this growing problem."