I certainly agree that the bill takes a step towards trying to level the playing field. I think we often forget how much is on the line for complainants in rape trials. When an accused is acquitted, the complainant may be called a liar publicly, to her family, to her community, and to her job. She may also be exposed to further jeopardy, which may mean mischief charges or perjury charges. She may be subject to defamation proceedings, with enormous personal and economic costs. I think we forget that this is not an ordinary witness. This is a witness with her whole life on the line. I don't think it's unfair to an accused to be deprived of the element of surprise when she too, in that context, is in jeopardy with respect to her privacy, but also the further implications of that proceeding.
On October 25th, 2017. See this statement in context.