NI murder laws face major review

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Northern Ireland is to be included in a major review to reform the law on murder, manslaughter and infanticide.

Security Minister Paul Goggins said the aim was to bring the law up to date and give confidence to the public and victims' families.

Mr Goggins said it would "ensure that the punishment fits the crime".

"The unlawful taking of life is the most serious matter which our criminal courts have to deal with," said the security minister.

"The law needs to be clear and fair so that people have confidence in the criminal justice system. We want to have an open and inclusive debate on the issues before we introduce any changes to the law."

The most controversial proposal affects cases of domestic homicide.

It would mean that defendants who successfully claimed to have been "seriously wronged" or in fear of "serious violence" would be convicted of manslaughter rather than murder.

Under current laws, people who kill their partner after years of abuse are at risk of being convicted of murder, which carries a life sentence.

But as part of the government's plans, victims of sustained abuse who are accused of murder would have a statutory legal defence.

If they can show they were in fear of serious violence from the person they killed, they will be convicted of manslaughter for which the sentence is less severe.

This would also apply to a rape victim who kills their attacker.

A further measure would prevent defendants escaping a murder conviction by claiming they were provoked by their partner being unfaithful.

The consultation was welcomed by the chief executive of the Northern Ireland Law Commission Judena Goldring.

"The commission will be considering the government's proposals in this important area," she said.

"In line with our desire to see greater participation in the development of law, we encourage everyone with an interest to consider the consultation paper and make their views known."

The same issues are being looked at in England and Wales.