Scotland Considers Standalone Law for Non-Fatal Strangulation

First Minister John Swinney pledges to review the need for specific legislation to address non-fatal strangulation, citing its severe physical and psychological impacts.

Non-fatal strangulation (NFS) is currently prosecuted under common assault law in Scotland, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Scotland remains the only UK nation without a standalone law addressing NFS, following legislative changes in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland in recent years.
First Minister John Swinney has committed to evaluating whether a legal gap exists that warrants a specific NFS offence, responding to calls from campaigners and MSPs.
Advocates argue that NFS is a growing issue with severe consequences, including heightened risks of violence and death, and that current legal frameworks fail to address its complexity.
Calls for reform include better data collection, public awareness campaigns, and the removal of the 'rough sex' defence, which critics say perpetuates harmful myths about consent.