Cameron accused of failure on stalking law change

He announced at a reception last week that stalking was to become a specific criminal offence.

Existing legislation was not strong enough to deal with the “dreadful” problem. But after studying measures proposed by the Government, campaigners say they will make little difference.

The changes would create one stalking offence that was triable only by magistrates – with a maximum sentence of six months.

A second more serious offence could attract heavier punishments in crown court, but the prosecution would need to show the victim suffered “fear of violence” – something critics say is very difficult to prove.

Claire Waxman, who was awarded damages after the authorities failed to protect her from a stalker, met the Premier at the Downing Street event on Thursday.

“It seemed positive. He seemed to have a real handle on what needed to take place,” she said.

“I just don’t know what has happened since that meeting. This is pretty much what we have already got. They have just added in the word ‘stalking’ (to anti-harassment legislation).

Harry Fletcher, assistant general secretary at probation union Napo, which has been campaigning for stronger legislation, said the reforms were welcome but do not give adequate protection.

“The Government must recognise that stalking results in psychological harm and wrecks lives.

“Limiting psychological effects to the magistrates court will mean that sentences are woefully short and the perpetrators will receive no treatment or even rehabilitation and as a consequence there will be repeat victimisation.”

Laura Richards from the charity Protection Against Stalking said “stalking being named is the only thing that is ‘new’.”