Drop in rape convictions ‘extremely concerning’

The Director of Public Prosecutions has said she is "extremely concerned" by figures showing that the conviction rate for rape dropped in the last 12 months in England and Wales.

In 2007-08, 58% of cases brought to trial resulted in a conviction. The conviction rate hit a high of 63% in 2011-12 but has since fallen back to 60%.

Alison Saunders told the Today programme that she hopes to reemphasise the importance for prosecutors and police to avoid reverting to myths and stereotypes over rape when dealing with such cases.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Friday 6 June.