A NORTH-EAST police force has achieved the highest rape conviction rates in the UK, according to the latest figures.

In Cleveland, 130 rapes were reported in the year 2007-08, of which 14.6 per cent led to convictions – well above the national average of 6.5 per cent.

The news comes as the Government announces its latest initiative to increase conviction rates, which are now the lowest in Europe.

Detective Chief Inspector Alastair Simpson of Cleveland Police said: “Alongside our key partners, we are working to improve all aspects of rape investigation to ensure that victims receive the best possible service.”

He welcomed the initiative, which will involve surveying rape victims on their experiences of how the police handled their cases as well as giving advice to officers on how best to deal with rape allegations.

The project is being spearheaded by Government consultant Dave Gee, former detective chief superintendent and head of Derbyshire CID, who says police often fail to investigate reported rapes properly.

“Too often, because of a negative mind at the outset, the case is undermined rather than built up,” he said.

“It is certainly difficult to actually establish whether an offence has occurred.

“But police should be investigating it like they would any other allegation.

“Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.”

The figures, which were compiled by the Liberal Democrats, show that Northumbria Police achieved a conviction rate of 8.6 per cent, North Yorkshire 8.3 per cent, and Durham 3.4 per cent.

However, Durham Police contested the figures, saying the rate for that force was nearer to 30 per cent.

Mike Barton, Durham Police’s assistant chief constable, said: “Last year, 128 reports of rape were logged by the force, and 58 resulted in prosecutions. Of the cases that went to court more than 70 per cent ended in conviction – the third highest success rate in the country.

“I have no doubt that all reports of rape and other serious sexual offences are vigorously and effectively investigated.”

Spokesmen for all the North-East’s police forces welcomed the initiative, which they said would help to bring more criminals to justice.