On Friday, I met with Janet Potter, the new Chief Crown Prosecutor for Mersey-Cheshire, to discuss the work of the Crown Prosecution Service and the challenges facing the criminal justice system locally. Janet, who was appointed to the role earlier this year, has extensive experience of prosecuting serious criminal cases, including rape, sexual offences and domestic abuse.
I also took the opportunity to raise the tragic case of my former constituent Hayley Staunton, who died by suicide in August 2025 following domestic abuse. Her abuser changed his plea at the last minute to guilty after initially pleading not guilty to charges and for this he received a reduction in sentence. I have been working with Hayley’s mother, Ruth Yates, who has campaigned tirelessly for changes to the way victims of domestic abuse are treated by the criminal justice system. I recently raised Hayley’s case in a Parliamentary debate and have met with Ministers to discuss the lessons that must be learned. I was pleased to have the opportunity to raise these concerns directly with Janet and will continue working with Ruth to ensure Hayley’s experience is not forgotten and that other victims and their families receive the protection and support they deserve.