THE HAGUE, 21/12/02 - Victims of serious crimes, or their relatives, will after all be given the right to make a statement in court. The Lower House has unanimously voted in favor of a private members' bill from the center-left (D66) and Pim Fortuyn List (LPF).

A week ago, some parties still found giving victims the right to speak was going too far. If the victim made an emotional statement, this could influence the judge, the criticism ran. Parliament appeared more in favor of a written statement alone, but MPs Dittrich (D66) and Schonewille (LPF) have now managed to convince the other parties.

Dittrich and Schonewille consider it strange that a suspect does always have the right to speak, but the victim can only speak if the court finds this relevant. The MPs believe that giving the right to speak to victims helps them cope with the crime. The victim may not be questioned by the defence.