AN alleged rape victim has said there is a “good chance” she would never have reported the crime had she known about a controversial new policy that could see complainers jailed for refusing to testify against their attackers.

The woman, whose case is still ongoing, said she “panicked” when she heard about the Crown Office’s new approach, which has come under renewed criticism from campaigners.

It comes after Scotland’s most senior judge, Lord Carloway, insisted victims of rape and sexual assault should not have to appear in court.

Last week, The Herald reported how Solicitor General Alison Di Rollo refused to rule out victims being jailed "in the most exceptional of circumstances" if they did not give evidence.

In a Holyrood debate urging a rethink, Scottish Labour MSP Kezia Dugdale read out a personal testimony from a victim who is currently working with Rape Crisis Scotland.

The woman said: “When my advocacy worker called to tell me about the change I immediately panicked and thought ‘this can’t be happening’.

“I am faced with the reality that there is a possibility they might force me to give evidence. Living every day with that possibility is terrible. I know it may be unlikely but I can’t help but think of the worst case scenario."

Ms Dugdale and Rape Crisis Scotland have called on the Crown to put its latest policy on hold, and instead focus on improving the court experience for victims.

A Crown Office spokesman said it was "committed to doing all it can to prevent violence against women and girls and to protect the public from serious sexual violence".