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JUSTICE Secretary Kenny MacAskill is to introduce laws to help rape victims who have "the odds stacked against them".

And he contradicted UK justice minister Ken Clarke's comments that some rapes are not as serious as others.

MacAskill said the SNP government would change the law so that judges will direct juries not to take into account any delay in reporting a rape or any apparent lack of resistance from the victim.

He said the administration had "already done a lot to bring Scotland's sex crime laws up to date".

But he added: "The fact remains that Scotland's conviction rate for rape is still low in comparison with other European countries.

"Rape trials must be fair to the accused but they also must be fair to the victims, who shouldn't have the odds stacked against them."

Last week, Clarke faced calls to quit after saying some rapes were not as serious as others. He later apologised.

MacAskill said: "Every case of rape is a horrific crime - whatever the circumstances - and no one should ever suggest otherwise."

In 2009-10, there were 884 reported rapes in Scotland but only 41 convictions.

Heather Coady, of Scottish Women's Aid, said: "The situation in Scotland regarding conviction rates for rape is appalling and we absolutely welcome the government's attempts to address this shameful situation.

"Let's hope these proposed changes herald a more enlightened approach."

Purple reigns

Nicola Sturgeon has revealed the secret of the SNP's election success - her lucky purple suit.

The deputy first minister was spotted in the outfit at key moments on the road to victory.

She said of the £280 outfit from High Street chain Hobbs: "It has served me well and something I associate with winning."