Steve Brine has warmly welcomed two new laws to protect the victims of stalking, which have now come into force, along with a raft of other supportive measures designed to tackle violence against women and girls.
Over a lifetime, almost one in five women and one in ten men are affected by stalking. According to the British crime survey 2010-2011, almost one in 20 women are a victim of stalking every year. The same survey estimates that between 2.7 and 3.1 million women have experienced stalking since the age of 16.
In addition, the survey also revealed that one third of victims said they lost their job or relationship, or had been forced to move home.
The Winchester & Chandler's Ford MP said: "There is no doubt at all that stalking is abhorrent. It is a crime that shatters the lives of its victims, and for too long it went untackled. I am proud we are not just standing by and seeing people's lives ruined.
"These new laws are very welcome, especially in light of the dreadful figures mentioned in the survey. They will help bring peace of mind to victims here in Winchester & Chandler's Ford, and actually wherever people are suffering because of stalking".
Home Secretary, Theresa May, said: "Stalking is a sickening and cowardly crime. Too many women live in fear, forced to look constantly over their shoulder. We need to end their suffering. That is why we are acting now.
"These new laws send a clear message that stalking will not be tolerated. This shows just how serious we are about tackling violence against women. Our priority is the victims and we will do all we can to protect them. Stalkers will not get away with it. They must be dragged out of the shadows and brought to justice".