SNP wants to scrap partner evidence law

THE SNP wants to scrap a law allowing spouses and civil partners to refuse to give evidence against their other half, it was announced today.

The Scottish Government said it would take an early opportunity to repeal the law, which exempts spouses from giving evidence against their partners.

Currently a husband, wife or civil partner only has to give evidence against their other half if they are the victim of an offence by them. But Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "For too long, spouses have been able to escape justice thanks to laws that mean their other half does not have to give evidence against them.

"This is not acceptable and has resulted in the past in people marrying their partners prior to trial, for example, on a charge of abusing their children, to avoid having to give evidence against them.

"That's why the Scottish Government will act to close this loophole. Changing the law will prevent couples covering up for each other."