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Landmark bill to tackle public sexual harassment one step closer to becoming law

9th December 2022

Today (Dec 9), Greg Clark MP’s Private Members Bill – the Protection from Sex-Based Harassment in Public Bill – successfully passed its Second Reading in the House of Commons.

Responding, Rose Caldwell, Chief Executive of Plan International UK, said: 

“This Bill is a huge step towards a society where no girl feels unsafe walking home. We’ve been working alongside youth campaigning group, Our Streets Now, to make public sexual harassment a crime since 2020. Today’s vote is a big moment for the many activists and supporters who have joined us in this cause, and most importantly for the lives of women and girls across the UK.  

“Our research found that 75% of all girls – some as young as twelve – have experienced some form of public sexual harassment in their lifetime. They are being harassed, followed, and touched and it needs to stop. 

“This Bill sends a clear signal to perpetrators that this behaviour is not ok, and to women and girls that they will be protected and listened to.     

“We thank Greg Clark MP for listening to young people and making today’s vote possible, and we welcome the Government’s backing for this vital legislation. We will be watching closely and backing this Bill as it continues its journey into law, as will the many thousands of girls and women whose safety depends on it.” 

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