An MP has criticised the criminal justice system after a man who partially blinded his victim was released from prison early.

Witham MP Priti Patel raised the appalling treatment of a victim of domestic violence in the House of Commons on Tuesday.

The woman, who has not been named, was assaulted and subsequently lost sight in one eye, forcing her to stop working.

Despite the horrific life changing injuries received, the perpetrator got a prison sentence of just 22 months, was released early and the Crown Prosecution Service failed to pursue a compensation order.

After asking the Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor to review the case, Mrs Patel said: “The criminal justice system should be on the side of victims but this horrific case shows how people who suffer are all too often let down.

"Victims of domestic abuse deserve support and protection from offenders who commit sick and depraved crimes.

"The soft sentence in this case and lack of support for the victims was particularly shocking and although we cannot turn back the clock the interest that the Lord Chancellor has taken in this case is welcome.”

"This case has highlighted why we need a robust new victims law in place.

"Victims of crime need more rights and deserve to be treated better by the criminal justice system. I will continue to stand up for victims of crime and campaign for this new law.”