Liz Lynne MEP

Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands

Euro-MP calls on Government to sign EU convention on human trafficking

2.36.19pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 30th Sep 2005

The appalling truth of human trafficking in the UK was made clear again last night in a raid on a Birmingham brothel. Police freed 19 victims of human trafficking forced into sexual slavery.

"These newest arrests in Birmingham are a clear example of how human trafficking is a problem right here in the UK, and why the UK Government must sign the European Convention on Trafficking in Human Beings.

"I and my Liberal Democrat colleagues have long led the call for tougher laws to deal with the problem of human trafficking, as well as for specific measures to support the victims. Signing up to the Convention will be a major first step. Authorities from across the EU can only stop the gangs by working together.

"These people are not illegal immigrants they are victims of crime whose human rights have been violated. That is why I am strongly in favour of the so called 'breathing' period of 30 days which would allow the victims of trafficking time 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 will also be allowed to apply for residence if they would be in danger on returning to their home country or if indeed they agree to give evidence."

ENDS.

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