'This is a vital step forward'

MP wants new offences against people who commit hate crimes

- Joseph Richards

AN MP says tougher sentences for violent offenders who target people because of their sexuality would mark a 'vital step forward'.

Uttoxeter MP Jacob Collier called for new aggravated offences as part of the Government's Crime and Policing Bill, as he warned many LGBT+ people "don't feel safe in reporting hate".

More than 100 cross-party MPs backed the proposed amendment which would create the new offences if violent crimes are motivated by hostility towards a person's sexuality, transgender identity or disability. Home Office minister Dame Diana Johnson has vowed to broaden the framework for aggravated offences.