MSPs have backed a new law making jail a last resort for suspected criminals despite warnings from victims’ groups that it could put people at “serious risk”.
Holyrood passed the Bail and Release from Custody (Scotland) Bill by 66 votes to 44 as part of efforts to send fewer people to prison on remand and reduce reoffending.
Victim Support Scotland. Scottish Women’s Aid and the domestic violence support service Assist had all pleaded with MSPs to reject the legislation.
But SNP Justice Secretary Angela Constance insisted it contained safeguards and would help tackle historically high levels of prisoners being held on remand.