THE Wee County's MP has called for action to ensure domestic abuse victims receive consistent levels of support across the UK.

Luke Graham proposes that Westminster increases the assistance it provides to the different tiers of government that offer help to victims of domestic abuse.

The elected rep put the proposal forward in parliament while questioning the minister for women, Victoria Atkins MP.

In answering the points Luke Graham had raised, she said: "We are seeking to address this issue through the Domestic Abuse Bill with the appointment of a domestic abuse commissioner.

"The role of the commissioner will be to hold local and national government, and stakeholders to account as to the provision of services across the country, so that there is no possibility of a post code lottery."

The response was welcomed by the Clacks MP, who claimed he looked forward to working with the government to ensure a consistent service is available to abuse victims.

Mr Graham added: "I am pleased to hear that levels of support and protection in every part of the UK are being considered and steps taken in the Domestic Abuse Bill.

"I have met with support workers and victims in and outside of our constituency and have seen the dedication of staff and the difference that can be made.

"I look forward to working with the government to ensure we see standards being set and maintained across the country."

Latest statistics show that between 2017-18, there were 831 instances of domestic abuse recorded by police in Clackmannanshire.

The Wee County has also seen a number high profile domestic abuse cases go through the courts in recent months.

Just last week, the Advertiser reported Sauchie resident James Brand was jailed for four years and described as one of the worst domestic abusers a sheriff had ever dealt with.

A spokesperson for Clackmannanshire Women's Aid said: "We welcome any discussion around the issues being raised in either the Scottish or UK Parliament as this leads to more awareness within the public in general and with women, children and young people affected by domestic abuse in particular.

"In Clackmannanshire, although we are the smallest county, we have the highest incidents of domestic abuse per capita.

"The need for our service is continually growing therefore we would welcome any increase in funding being made available."