Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has stated that victims in rape cases must not feel as though they are being put on trial. His comments came after a police chief suggested that remarks made during the trial of comedian Russell Brand bordered on victim blaming.
Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, raised concerns that the public discourse surrounding the allegations against Brand was creating an environment where victims might feel hesitant to come forward. He specifically pointed to comments that he felt were 'close to victim blaming,' according to BBC News.
Sunak responded to these concerns, affirming his commitment to upholding the rights and confidence of victims. The Prime Minister's office indicated that the government takes such matters very seriously and is committed to ensuring the justice system adequately supports those who have experienced sexual assault.