Anonymity of Suspects Bill

Key Points

• Creates a new offence: disclosing the identity of a person under investigation for an alleged offence.
• Applies to disclosures by individuals and organisations; penalties would be set out in the bill.
• Aims to protect suspects’ anonymity during investigations to reduce potential harassment or prejudice.
• Current status: the bill is at the 2nd Reading in the Commons and was introduced by Sir Christopher Chope; originated in the Commons.
• If passed, it would proceed through Committee Stage, Report Stage and Third Reading in the Commons, then to the Lords for consideration.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd Reading in the Commons. After this, it would move to detailed examination in Committee Stage and then on to further readings before moving to the Lords if it passes.