offences legislation.

And Health and Social Services Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness believes the Criminal Code (Sexual Offences) Amendment Act 1992 will send a message to sex offenders that they will not be dealt with lightly.

The act, which received its first reading in the House of Assembly on Friday, stiffens penalties for sex offenders.

And it also introduces new offences into the system including sexual abuse by a person in trust and knowingly having sex when you have a sexual disease, like AIDS.

But the Act also provides help for sexual offenders and their victims through treatment programmes.

Mr. Edness said: "The Government reacted to public concern about this whole area two to three years ago when there appeared to be an increase in this kind of offence in the community.

"There was also a dissatisfaction with the size of sentences being handed out by the courts. In many instances courts were giving meagre sentences for sexual offences.'' At that time, Mr. Edness set up a review committee which looked into the problems of sex crime.

Under the new act, sentences are increased up to 20 years, 30 years and life for a variety of offences.

Aggravated sexual assault, which means an assault on a person who is wounded, maimed or disfigured could lead to life imprisonment.

Serious sexual assault could carry up to 30 years imprisonment, while sexual exploitation of a young person by a person in a position of trust can lead to a conviction for 20 years.

Mr. Edness said the Act is "gender neutral'', recognising assaults on both females and males.

Corroboration is no longer required and prior sexual activity and previous reputation will not be admissible in court. Spouses may now be charged.

If a woman does not immediately report a rape it will not affect the case under the new law. Mr. Edness said: "There are some cases where a woman would have been traumatised and have misgivings about reporting it.'' Mr. Edness describes the amendments as innovative and based on recent legislation in Canada and Australia.

Mr. Edness said: "It is a Government response to the concerns of the women of this Country.

"We must ensure that we live in a safer society where women can be free to walk the streets without fear of being abused.''