New sexual offences legislation for Scotland

Children in Scotland will receive greater protection from sexual predators as a result of new legislation passed by the Scottish Parliament.

The Protection of Children and Prevention of Sexual Offences (Scotland) Bill will introduce risk of sexual harm orders restricting the activities of those believed to pose a risk to children, even if they have not been convicted.

The bill will also create a specific offence to deal with those who groom children for the purposes of carrying out unlawful sexual activity, and extend the laws relating to the distribution of indecent images of children and young people.

Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said: “Child sex abuse is one of the most evil, despicable crimes in society today. It can leave emotional and physical scars that last a lifetime and it is vital that we do all we can to support the police, courts and other organisations in tackling this problem.”