Rather, the contrast in the conviction rate for rape and attempted rape trials, when compared to the overall conviction rate, suggests that more needs to be done address this disparity. 1 National Statistics, Scottish Government, Criminal Proceedings in Scotland, 2020-21., June 2022 – (www.gov.scot) 2 National Statistics, Scottish Government, Criminal Proceedings in Scotland, 2020-21., June 2022 – (www.gov.scot) 3 National Statistics, Scottish Government, Criminal Proceedings in Scotland, 2020-21., June 2022 – (www.gov.scot) 4 National Statistics, Scottish Government, Criminal Proceedings in Scotland, 2020-21., June 2022 – (www.gov.scot) 5 National Statistics, Scottish Government, Criminal Proceedings in Scotland, 2020-21., June 2022 – (www.gov.scot) This is of particular concern as the decline in conviction rates takes place against the backdrop of the highest number of sexual offences 6 being recorded in the last five years in December 2022. 6 Scottish Government, Justice Analytical Services (JAS) Safer Communities and Justice Statistics Monthly Data Report: April 2023 edition, April 2021 – (www.gov.scot) 2.