David Ruffley MP has today voiced his wholehearted support for The White Ribbon Campaign- sixteen days of action to raise awareness of domestic violence, abuse and the support services that are available in Suffolk.

In Suffolk domestic violence accounts for more than 33 percent of all violent crime.

To mark the campaign David has contacted and written to Bury St Edmunds Women's Refuge offering his wholehearted support and has arranged a Christmas visit on 21 December 2005.

David has also arranged to make White Ribbons available from his Constituency Office in Woolpit to enable visitors to donate and show their support for the campaign. The office can be contacted on 01359 244 199.

David said:

'This is a vital campaign because too often domestic violence is a taboo subject. But one incident of domestic violence is one too many. I therefore encourage all my constituents across Suffolk to support it.

'Domestic violence accounts for more than a third of all violent crime in our County. It is a crime that can often go unnoticed and unpunished. Victims must know that the support they need is available, that they will be listened to and most importantly they should not be afraid to ask for help.

'By wearing a white ribbon we are able to pledge never to commit, tolerate or ignore violence against women.

'To mark this campaign I have written to the Women's Refuge in Bury St Edmunds and arranged a personal Christmas visit on 21 December by me as Member of Parliament. I want to show solidarity and support on this vital women's rights issue. I look forward to seeing the important work they do, which can save lives, and I hope to receive some idea of how politicians can do more to support this essential community work.'

The White Ribbon Campaign website can be found at

www.WhiteRibbonCampaign.co.uk