| answer text |
<p>In 2017-18, the number of non-convictions due to complainant retraction was 188,
down from 198 the previous year. This accounted for 1.3% of all completed hate crime
prosecutions. The Crown Prosecution Service is working closely with criminal justice
partners to ensure the support offered to complainants and witnesses in hate crime
cases is tailored to meet their individual needs.</p><p>The majority of hate crime
prosecutions (75.4%) result in a guilty plea from defendants, reducing the need for
complainants and witnesses to give evidence in court. However, where live evidence
is required, the CPS is committed to supporting them to give their best evidence.
This includes consideration of whether they would benefit from special measures such
as giving evidence behind a screen or via a video link.</p>
|
 |
