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Memorandum submitted by Sexual Freedom Coalition (PC 67)
I would like to make some points on the policing and crime bill on behalf of the Sexual Freedom Coalition.
Clause 13 Paying for the sexual services of controlled prostitutes How can a client know whether a sex worker is forced by a pimp, manipulated by a husband, controlled by gangs, trafficked or (like most) working of his/her own free will? This clause puts all punters at unnecessary risk, and frightens innocent people off paying for sexual services that they may really need. Disabled people in particular often have no option but to use the services of sex workers.
Clause 15 Amendments to the offence of loitering Adding the word "persistently" will make street workers more panicky about picking up clients, so they will rush into cars without making considered judgements, and wait in derelict, more hidden areas where psychos can prey on them, putting themselves at real danger Clause 16 Requiring the attendance of meetings and services It is not acceptable to force sex workers who have drug habits into rehabilitation and, in any case, this has been proven not to work Clause 18 Soliciting Will make it much easier for kerb crawlers to get busted and even ordinary motorists and pedestrians will get busted for stopping to ask for directions, etc.
Clause 20 Closure Orders This will mean the police can shut down what they think is a brothel whenever they "discover" one, without requiring any evidence. This threatens women who work together (which is much safer), well-run brothels, massage parlours and saunas. When establishments get closed down, sex workers will naturally resort to working on the street, where they will be more vulnerable, and
perhaps get murdered like the five girls in
I would strongly urge the government to reconsider the overwhelming evidence that legalisation of prostitution, provided it is done with care, offers sexworkers the best opportunity of staying safe, and surely it is the safety of sexworkers which should be paramount in any consideration of the law on this matter.
February 2009 |