MP wins sex law change

POLICE have been given new powers to tackle sex offenders following a successful campaign by Lewes MP Norman Baker.

The Government's chief surveillance officer, Sir Andrew Leggatt, in response to a letter from Mr Baker, has given the green light for police forces to use bugging and secret filming to catch adults suspected of having sexual relationships with children under 13.

The new powers will allow police officers to prosecute sex offenders even if the child involved is unwilling to testify.

Sir Andrew agreed with Mr Baker that, although intrusive surveillance techniques require strong justification under the Human Rights Act, their use is warranted in this important exception.

Said Mr Baker: 'The need to protect children outweighs concern about children's privacy.'

Until now police say they have frequently been unable to intervene to stop such illegal sexual relationships unless the child makes a complaint, given the need to secure evidence that would warrant a prosecution.

Concerns

Mr Baker's campaign to reform procedure started after two constituents contacted him with concerns about their 12 year old daughter's relationship with an older man. The parents found to their dismay that they were powerless to stop the affair unless their daughter complained.

Mr Baker added: 'Nobody likes intrusive surveillance techniques and these must be strictly controlled. But if these afford protection to vulnerable children then I believe their use is warranted.

'The law is redundant if a child in a sexual relationship is unwilling to complain.

'I welcome the steps being taken to increase the level of protection afforded to children.'