Christmas action to tackle domestic violence

LONDON - The government promised action on Friday to help address domestic violence over Christmas when the number of incidents are expected to rocket.

Police say there are about a third more incidents of domestic assault on Christmas Day compared to the daily average as pressures spill over to violence.

"Christmas for most is a time of fun and family, however, for some the emotional strain of the season can contribute to a rise in domestic violence," said Home Office minister Vernon Coaker.

The government has pledged 450,000 pounds towards an enforcement campaign which be used to target high risk repeat offenders, for video recording at the scenes of incidents and for rapid responses by staff with specialist training.

Domestic violence accounts for 15 percent of all crime nationally, 31 percent of all violence to women and 5 percent of all violence to men.

Brian Moore, the Association of Chief Police Officers' spokesman on domestic violence said police wanted to send out the message that offenders would be arrested.

"Our goal is to keep as many victims as safe as we can and lock up as many abusers as possible for Christmas and the New Year," he said.

"Perpetrators can be clear that the police will do all within their power to arrest and prosecute them."

The announcement was welcomed by women's support group Refuge, but it added action was needed all year round.

"At Refuge we know that domestic violence doesn't take time off at Christmas," said chief executive Sandra Horley.

"It is a day like any other for thousands of women and children who are living in the grip of violence."