Rape Crisis: Misuse of Parliamentary Privilege by Samuels

Rape Crisis said that Dover Samuels had misused his position as a Member of Parliament by disclosing the name of the young woman concerned in the House today.

"The Hon. Mr Samuels chose to breach confidentiality of the young woman by naming her in the House today," said Claire Benson, Rape Crisis National Spokeswoman. "Maintaining confidentiality of survivors is crucial. The main fears of survivors are that they will be blamed, and that they will not be believed."

Rape Crisis says these fears may prevent many survivors coming forward sooner. Recent statistics show that it may take survivors over 10 years to talk to Rape Crisis. Only a third of survivors approaching Rape Crisis choose to report to the Police.

"We are also concerned about the comments of the Hon. Mr Samuels that he found the fabrication of allegations more abhorrent than actually committing the crimes of rape and sexual abuse", said Ms Benson, "Rape and sexual abuse are very serious assaults that can leave major psychological and physical impacts. We are concerned that the Hon. Mr Samuels does not appreciate this."

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For further comment contact Claire Benson Rape Crisis National Spokeswoman 021 684 227

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