"I am delighted that the Voyeurism (Offences) Act has made upskirting illegal. Upskirting is a degrading and distressing practice that invades a person's privacy. I am extremely pleased to hear that perpetrators can finally be criminally charged." Caroline Dinenage MP
Upskirting is now a criminal offence in England and Wales as new legislation means offenders can be charged for up to two years and in most serious cases can be placed on the sex offenders register. Upskirting came to Members of Parliament and the public's attention after the campaign launched by Gina Martin made national headlines. Gina had a photo taken underneath her skirt at a festival and could not legally pursue her case.
The Voyeurism (Offences) (No.2) Bill has now received Royal Assent and individuals can be convicted for photographing or videoing underneath a person's clothing without consent.
Caroline commented:
"I was appalled to hear Gina's case and to learn that upskirting was not illegal. It is an incredibly degrading and humiliating crime that can seriously affect a person's mental health. With the advent of social media, these photos can be strewn across the web without a person's consent without being able to prosecute the perpetrator. I am delighted to hear that the Bill has received Royal Assent and we can protect victims and their privacy."
