Prime Minister Theresa May has given support to Bath’s Liberal Democrat MP Wera Hobhouse’s fight to make upskirting, taking a photo up someone’s skirt without their consent, a specific criminal offence.
Responding to Wera in Prime Minister’s Questions, Mrs May stated she shared her outrage at the act and that the government was seriously considering the Bath MP’s efforts to change the law.
Wera’s Private Member’s Bill, which seeks to make upskirting a voyeurism offence, has its second reading on 11th May. Commenting on the Prime Minister’s support, Wera said: “I am delighted the Prime Minister has listened to our call for reform.
“This would ensure women will be fully protected by the law from upskirting.
“Upskirting has been illegal in Scotland since 2009 and it is simply outrageous it is taking us so long to criminalise it here in England and Wales.
“A couple of months ago I began campaigning with Gina Martin and it was great to invite her to join us today in the gallery as I asked for the Prime Minister’s support for the campaign she founded.
“Today marks a huge step in achieving our goal of making upskirting what it deserves to be: a specific criminal offence. I cannot now see any legitimate reason for which the government would not back my bill.”
