MEPs back action on human trafficking.

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 17th Jan 2006

Commenting on the European Parliament's adoption of a report on combating human trafficking, Liberal Democrat European justice spokeswoman Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP said:

"The only way we will stop women and children are being forced into prostitution throughout the EU is if we have a common and integrated approach across Europe."

UK Liberal Democrats in the European Parliament secured the inclusion in the report of a clause highlighting EU governments' failure to sign up to the Council of Europe's Convention on Human Trafficking, an issue that Sarah Ludford has repeatedly raised. She added:

"As long as trafficked people are treated principally as illegal immigrants for rapid deportation, which is unfortunately the approach of the Blair government, there will be little progress. The approach of the European Convention is to treat them as victims and provide for care such as a period of reflection. This is not only the most compassionate policy, it also increases the likelihood that they will assist in prosecuting the trafficking gangs. "

Note:

The Convention provides for a period of 30 days for the victims of trafficking to stay in the member state to consider whether they wish to co-operate in the prosecution of the trafficker. During that time, they would be given access to counselling and other assistance. They would also be allowed to apply for residence if they would be in danger on returning to their home country or if they agree to give evidence.