URGENT: Violence Against Women and Girls Declared National Emergency.

Breaking News: Violence Against Women and Girls Declared National Emergency Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has declared violence against women and girls a national emergency, announcing plans to establish specialist rape and sexual offence investigation teams in every police force in England and Wales by 2029. This move comes as part of a long-delayed plan to halve violence against women and girls within a decade. The strategy includes funding for undercover units operating online and the rollout of domestic abuse protection orders. The Home Secretary has criticized the current criminal justice system, stating it "fails women" and that police forces' investigation methods are a "postcode lottery." She emphasized the need for specialist officers with the right training to tackle rape and sexual offence cases. The government's plan is set to be unveiled on Thursday, following three delayed announcements this year. The new teams are expected to have a significant impact on addressing the issue, but the effectiveness of the strategy remains to be seen. This is a developing story, with further details and reactions expected in the coming days.