Andy Burnham to review rape case procedures following Russell Brand conviction
Andy Burnham has said he will look at how rape cases are conducted in court after Russell Brand’s conviction, to ensure they do not leave women feeling like they are the ones on trial, reports BritPanorama.
The Prime Minister refused to rule out changes to the law, stating he would examine the case “in great detail.” He described Brand’s actions as “horrifying” and praised the courage of the women who spoke out against the comedian.
Brand is facing a lengthy jail term after being convicted of raping one of his fans and sexually assaulting three women during his rise to fame. The Metropolitan Police chief, Sir Mark Rowley, remarked that some media reports from Brand’s trial were “getting very close to victim blaming” and backed calls for judges to instruct juries on rape myths.
In an interview, Burnham stated, “I think we need to constantly look at the way rape trials are conducted to make sure that they do not leave the woman feeling like she is on trial in court.” He emphasized the need to support victims of sexual assault and improve the conviction rate, which he noted has not risen enough.
Sir Rowley, speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, criticized arguments made by Brand’s defence lawyer, who claimed that none of the complainants had resisted or screamed. Sir Rowley warned against falling into myths about victim behaviour, asserting, “The evidence is really clear… there isn’t one way of reacting.”
He also expressed support for Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman, who is advocating for a legal duty to require judges to issue directions to juries about rape myths in every trial. Sir Rowley indicated that he would support this if proposals came forward.
As fallout continues, it’s anticipated that more alleged victims of Brand may come forward. High-profile cases often encourage others to report their experiences, a phenomenon Sir Rowley acknowledged.
Brand was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault following a high-profile trial at Southwark Crown Court. He has denied the charges, although he was acquitted of two additional rape charges and an attempted indecent assault.
The jury deliberated for around nine hours on the seven allegations against him, leading to a significant custodial term expected to be handed down during sentencing on Monday.
Burnham is the most senior government figure to comment since the jury’s verdict, marking a notable response in a case that has drawn widespread attention. Prior to the allegations, he had expressed support for Brand, highlighting how the comedian had leveraged his celebrity for positive influence.
As the discussion on judicial reforms in rape cases intensifies, the potential shifts in policy represent a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for justice and support for victims of sexual violence.
