Harriet Harman

Former MP for Camberwell and Peckham

Ending the "50 shades of grey" defence in domestic homicide

Natalie Connolly was killed by John Broadhurst during what he claimed was “rough sex”. He blamed her for her own death and said she wanted his violence. He was charged with manslaughter and sentenced to only 3 years 8 months. I referred this sentence as ‘Unduly Lenient’ to the Attorney General in December. I’m very disappointed that he will not appeal the sentence. Men used to evade murder charges with the “nagging and shagging defence”. The 21st century version is the “50 shades of grey defence”. This cannot be allowed to stand and I’m seeking amendments to the forthcoming Domestic Abuse Bill.

 

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