Trafficking and prostitution of children across Europe must stop now - Lynne

12.00.00am GMT Wed 31st Jan 2007

Liz Lynne, Lib Dem MEP for the West Midlands Region is today calling on her fellow MEPs to back a call to end the barbaric trafficking of children for prostitution across the EU by signing a Written Declaration in the European Parliament which expires tomorrow.

Commenting from the European Parliament in Brussels, Liz said: "Human trafficking across Europe is the modern form of slavery. The thousands of children that are brought into Britain every year as sex workers have no choice whether they work as prostitutes or not.

"Modern technology actually bolsters the trafficking of children. The growth of the internet, child pornography and easier methods of communication facilitate and help to increase this abhorrent practice."

The Written Declaration, which is an equivalent to an Early Day Motion in Westminster, calls on the Commission, Council and member states to implement a range of measures. These include the establishment of a European-wide help-line for trafficked children and greater cooperation between national authorities.

Liz believes that: "The only way this atrocious practice will be stamped out is if we have a common and integrated approach across Europe. That is why I appeal to all of my colleagues here in the European Parliament to back this plea for action to be taken against this vile, inhumane trade".

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

A Written Declaration needs half of the signatures from Members to be forwarded to the Council and Commission. At present, this Written Declaration has 127 of the 393 signatures needed.