ACPO lead on stalking and harassment Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan said:

"Stalking often has a huge emotional impact on those it affects and can cause lasting damage to confidence and independence.

"The introduction of legislation that makes stalking a specific offence sends out a clear message to offenders that stalking in any form is a crime.

"The new powers of entry will allow officers to search premises for vital evidence and will assist in bringing offenders to justice"

"We are committed to working our partner agencies, using all of the tools at our disposal to protect victim's from stalkers."