Cases of domestic violence have halved in 12 years, Ms Smith claims

A register of people who have attacked their partners could help prevent other potential victims of domestic abuse, the government has said.

The creation of a database monitored by police is one of several plans to be unveiled by the Home Office on Monday.

In 2007, 142 people died in UK attacks, including 38 men, and there are thought to be thousands of abuse cases a year.

In Scotland, ministers pledged £44m to tackle the "scourge" of abuse as they marked International Women's Day.

Scottish Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "Sadly, violence is part of too many women's lives across the world.

'Unacceptable'

"On this day and throughout the year the Scottish Government is determined to tackle the scourge of violence against women and children."

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith has called for a national debate on the issue and has asked police to report back on the powers they need to get a grip on the problem.

The government is considering giving police powers to ban offenders from the family home for a fortnight.

Ms Smith said: "Violence against women and girls is unacceptable in any form.

"We've already made real progress with domestic violence incidents more than halving in the past 12 years.

"But I want to start a national debate on what more we can do to prevent it and challenging attitudes which condone it."

The proposals will be set out in a consultation document on reducing domestic violence.

It will also include ideas for tackling honour killings, female genital mutilation, and the sexualisation of young girls.



