"Several people believe there needs to be research into the number of false accusations - this is not necessarily equal to the number of acquittals. and is beleived by police and solicitors to be extremely rare. Yet the implication of the change is that women frequently lie, and men need protection from this. Such research needs to precede change in the law."

Penny. Who is making the implication that women frequently lie? Even if there are only ten false accusations a year that is ten people's lives trashed through malicious allegation. That can never be right. There are things wrong with the whole rape charge situation and women are frequently abused by the system. I would totally agree that needs looking at, but to be named and accused for something that is alleged, before any guilt has been establsihed, also trashes lives. Giving defendants anonmity before trial would not change any of the things you mention. They need to be changed in themselves.

Can you imagine the consequences of being accused of a serious crime, it splattered across the papers and on the televison, it's effects on your friends, family and career, when you are totally innocent? I am all foir rapists getting harsh sentences... but let it happen once they are proven guilty. That seems only fair

Thouigh I respect completely the points you have raised as also being very unfair

mp