AN MP is calling for action on domestic violence after shock figures revealed that convictions in Suffolk have gone up by more than 50 per cent in the past year - the second-highest conviction rate in the country.

David Ruffley MP released new House of Commons figures which reveal that between 2005 and 2006 the number of convictions for domestic violence in Suffolk rocketed by 52 per cent.

The figures showed that in 2005 there were 428 convictions for domestic violence in Suffolk, increasing to 652 in 2006.

Mr Ruffley, MP for Bury St Edmunds, said: "We must do all we can to stamp out this despicable crime which can ruin lives and shatter families."