Welcome for updated Schengen info-system

4.11.11pm GMT Mon 23rd Oct 2006

Commenting on this week's debate and vote in the European Parliament on an updated information system for the border-free 'Schengen' area to which most EU states (but not yet the UK) belong or will soon belong, Liberal Democrat European justice spokesperson Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP said:

"This improved Schengen Information System of alerts on wanted people which border forces and police can access will ensure that the free movement of people within the European Union is matched by effective security measures. But MEPs have also successfully insisted on strong data protection safeguards to prevent misuse of that information."

"I hope that over time the UK government and people will be able to see an advantage in UK entry to the Schengen zone, so that British citizens can avoid the passport queues but our immigration and police services can track, catch and deter suspected criminals and illegal immigrants through cross-border cooperation."

Sarah Ludford however criticised last minute demands from some member states such as Germany to grant access for intelligence services:

"It is getting to be a habit that as soon as an EU database is created for a borders or immigration purpose, police or intelligence services demand access. But there should be no knee-jerk pushing aside of privacy considerations, and basic data protection principles of proportionality and respect for the original purpose of collection must be adhered to."

Notes:

The first Schengen Information System could only function for up to a maximum of 18 member states and did not incorporate the latest developments in information technology. Developing SIS II thus became imperative in order to accommodate new member states as well as to update its functioning.

Sarah Ludford is 'rapporteur' on a proposal for another EU database (Visa Information System) whereby information on visa applicants would be shared by member states in order to stop visa-shopping, fraud etc. It is intended that police and intelligence services will have access to this data under strict conditions for the prevention and investigation of cases of terrorism and serious crime.