Domestic abuse figures published today show there were 58,810 incidents in 2016-17, up 1% from the previous year. Recorded by Police Scotland, the figures also show that 79% of these incidents had a female victim and a male accused. Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said the figures demonstrate the need for the Scottish Government to continue its drive to reduce gender-based violence. Mt Matheson said; "While the figures have been relatively stable over the past five years, they remain evidence of the unacceptable levels of domestic abuse in Scotland. We know these figures don't paint the whole picture, as victims are often too afraid to report abuse. We also know domestic abuse disproportionally affects women. "It is crucial our work continues with even greater urgency. We have allocated record funding of £20 million over three years towards eliminating violence against women and girls, and we are taking forward legislation to introduce a new offence, criminalis