§ Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has for the reform of laws relating to prostitution; and if he will make a statement. [147074]
§ Caroline FlintThe Sex Offences Act, due to be implemented in May 2004, introduces a range of new offences specifically dealing with the exploitation of children and adults through prostitution.
We are currently examining what further changes to the criminal law are needed in respect of prostitution, as well as some of the wider associated issues-including the links with serious drug abuse, violent and other crime, and damage to local communities. We hope to publish a paper for public consultation later this year.