Like many I have been distressed and saddened by the murder of Sarah Everard.
This was a horrific crime and a personal tragedy causing immeasurable grief to Sarah’s family and friends. My thoughts and prayers go out to them all.
It has also caused us all to reflect more generally on how dangerous the simple act of walking alone for women can be, and as I have a daughter in her twenties, this has particularly resonated with me.
Women in London, and everywhere, should be and feel safe when they leave their homes. Many have bravely shared their experiences showing how common street harassment remains, and how it far too often goes unreported.
Offenders should not feel they can abuse women on the streets, or anywhere else, with impunity. All reports and allegations should be seriously and robustly investigated, and victims must have the confidence that the justice system is there to support them.
In response to these events, the Home Secretary has reopened the call for views to shape a new strategy to tackle violence against women and girls. I encourage everyone to have their say and share their views: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/violence-against-women-and-girls-vawg-call-for-evidence