I was pleased to hear Keir Starmer highlight at Prime Minister’s Questions today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the disturbing rise in domestic abuse during the pandemic.

Earlier today, at Women and Equalities Questions, I also raised this concern, and asked whether the Government would continue to support the Rail to Refuge scheme, operated by @Great Western Railway and others, which have helped over 800 people flee domestic abuse via the use of a free rail ticket. The Minister acknowledged the importance of the scheme but, worryingly, could not commit to funding it beyond March next year; this is certainly something I will keep an eye on, and press for the funding to be made permanent.

Watch here.