'Upskirting' perpetrators could face up to two years in prison as a new law is set to be signed off by the Queen today.

The law will ban the degrading practice to deter perpetrators, better protect victims, and bring more offenders to justice.

The Government intervened last June to bring forward measures to tackle this behaviour, after a Private Members Bill did not pass its second reading when it was blocked up Tory MP Christopher Chope.

The government-backed legislation has since successfully passed through both Houses of Parliament.

The issue was first brought to the public’s attention by the unwavering campaign of Gina Martin, after two men took a picture up her skirt at a festival.

Justice Minister Lucy Frazer said: "Those who commit such a degrading act will face prison, and victims’ complaints will be dealt with seriously.

"Gina Martin and other victims, charities and MPs supporting her should be immensely proud. Her efforts show how one campaigner can work with government to change the law for everyone."

Here is what you need to know about the new law.

What is upskirting?

Upskirting is a highly intrusive practice, which typically involves someone taking a picture under another person’s clothing without their knowledge, with the intention of viewing their genitals or buttocks (with or without underwear).

It can take place in a range of places, eg British Transport Police have seen a rise of reports on public transport.

The new law will capture instances where the purpose of the behaviour is to obtain sexual gratification, or to cause humiliation, distress or alarm.

Anyone, and any gender, can be a victim and this behaviour is completely unacceptable.

What punishment can perpetrators face?

Perpetrators will face two years in prison. By criminalising this distressing practice, it is hoped that it deters people from committing the crime.

Upskirting, where committed to obtain sexual gratification, can result in the most serious offenders being placed on the sex offenders register.

The new law will send a clear message that such behaviour is criminal and will not be tolerated.

What can victims of upskirting do?

If you’re a victim of upskirting, the police and other organisations are there to help you.

Don’t suffer in silence, seek support. You may want to speak to someone you already know and trust, or get in touch with a charity.

It’s important to know your rights after a crime has taken place, the police will be able to talk you through this.

Victims of upskirting will be entitled to automatic protection, eg from being identified in the media (so they won’t be able to publish any identifying details such as names, addresses or photos).

Why is the law changing?

Upskirting has not gone unpunished in England and Wales - depending on the circumstances it is already prosecuted under the common law offence of outraging public decency.

However, following concerns expressed by victims, a review of the law found that the existing criminal law may not have been able to capture all instances.

The Voyeurism (Offences) (No. 2) Bill, which is commonly known as the Upskirting Bill, was introduced on June 21 2018. It will receive Royal Assent soon.