Domestic violence - Change the housing law

The report on domestic violence, coming as it did on the day the mother-and-baby homes inquiry was announced, is another tragic indication of how we tolerate vile behaviour most often directed at women or children.

That almost five calls for help were answered every hour last year by domestic violence services indicates such a high level of domestic violence that immediate and strong action is required. Persuasive sanctions and education can both play a part.

A common consequence of domestic violence is homelessness but current legislation makes rehousing victims difficult. This should be resolved quickly because it is an unfortunate reality that domestic violence will be with us for some time.