Bill to keep suspects' names secret until they are charged

This bill would change the law to stop police and media from naming suspects before they are formally charged with a crime. Currently, police can release suspects' names to the public during investigations. The bill would make it illegal to publish a suspect's identity until prosecutors decide to charge them. The government says this will protect innocent people from having their reputations damaged by false accusations. Critics argue this would reduce press freedom and make it harder for other victims to come forward. The law would apply to all criminal investigations in England and Wales. It would not affect cases where suspects are already charged or convicted.

• 1Makes it illegal to publish suspects' names before they are charged
• 2Police would not be allowed to release suspects' identities to media
• 3Applies to all criminal investigations in England and Wales
• 4Government says it protects innocent people from reputation damage
• 5Critics say it limits press freedom and victim reporting