THE Crown Prosecution Service in the capital is set to increase the number of specialist prosecutors dealing with 'honour' violence.

The news comes two months after a 24-year-old man was beaten, stabbed and doused with acid in Leytonstone in a suspect attempted honour killing.

The man suffered 50 per cent burns as well as tissue damage to his throat after his attackers forced him to drink the acid and remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

Three people, including a 16-year-old boy have been charged with attempted murder.

An announcement was made on the decision at a conference organised by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO).

Speaking at the event, Acting Chief Crown Prosecutor for London, Nazir Afzal OBE, said: “'Honour’ based violence is a big problem in London and with this increase in the number of specialist prosecutors, we hope to reduce the number of victims and bring more offenders to justice.

“By having a number of prosecutors who specialise in this type of crime we have a database of people who have knowledge of the difficulties in bringing prosecutions against offenders. The prosecutors will be familiar with the different sensitive and often complex issues which are apparent in cases of this kind.

“'Honour’ based violence is difficult to prosecute as it involves family, community and long standing cultural beliefs. But the Crown Prosecution Service will not shy away from tackling ‘honour’ based violence, it’s a fundamental abuse of human rights.”

London currently has 10 specialist prosecutors for ‘honour’ based violence and this is set to double in the coming months.

A DVD which will be shown to every police officer in the country to help them spot signs of ‘honour’ crime.

The short film, which is presented by Mr. Afzal, will give the officers guidance on getting advice and protecting victims during prosecution.