A NUMBER of controversial proposals have been made by Wiltshire’s Chief Constable Brian Moore to track serial wife-beaters to protect their victims.

Men who repeatedly abuse women could have their movements and activities followed under plans to combat domestic violence, it was revealed yesterday.

Vulnerable women may also be given the "right to know" if their new partners have a history of offending.

The measure is among 10 recommendations made by Mr Moore at a press conference at the Association of Chief Police Officers’ HQ in London.

“Some of these proposals are quite controversial,” said Mr Moore.

“We want to make sure women are safe and secure against a balance of privacy and confidentiality of the perpetrator.”

There are more than 100 serial domestic abuse perpetrators in Wiltshire out of 25,321 across the country.

Mr Moore said: “The research shows us our systems are not particularly well joined up. We’re not able to look across the perpetrator’s profile that well, particularly as they move on from relationship to relationship.

“If there is relevant information in the possession of the state, should that be brought to the attention of the victim? The best way to protect yourself is to know the risks you face.”

A group of 30 women was spoken to by police in Devizes in April. Mr Moore said the group gave three responses to the proposals. One set said if they knew their partner’s violent history they would not have allowed the person in the house. Another group said they would try to change the aggressive behaviour, while others said they would give the person a chance.

He was keen to differentiate his proposals with the sex offenders’ register, used to track paedophiles, rapists and other sex offenders. He said: “The sex offenders’ register is different. There is very little discretion about who appears on there.

“In this case we are dealing with serial perpetrators.

“Nevertheless, where we do determine someone by virtue of their previous offending behaviour has a propensity and is more likely to go on to offend again, that should be drawn to the attention of the court who is sentencing that person for domestic abuse.”

The Government will look at the proposals before deciding whether to make the recommendations legislation.

To read Mr Moore’s report, visit www.acpo.police.uk