Ref. 25782-50MEMBERS of a Swindon vice patrol hope new Gov-ernment consultation will stop women from turning to prostitut-ion.

With less than a month until the consul-tation period for the review of prostitution closes, the Home Office is calling for the public, particularly those directly affected, to get involved with the debate.

John McCue, of Street Watch, which goes on nightly patrols around Broad Street, Manchester Road, Station Road and Gorse Hill, said that he would like to hear new ideas to help clear up the town's streets.

"I welcome the fact that the Government is trying to do something," he said.

"A fresh look will help to generate new ideas to stop women turning to prostitution but it will be hard as it is a vicious circle involving drugs and crime.

"If communities are involved it will provide feedback to help with the fight."

Through the consultation, the Government is determined to combat the stranglehold of pimps and break links between prostitution and drug markets, trafficking and other areas of organised crime.

Ministers also aim to protect and support communities which suffer knock-on effects, as well as prostitutes who find themselves trapped in a violent circle of abuse.

Since Street Watch, which involves recording information about kerb crawlers and hookers, was launched in 2001, the number of prostitutes on Swindon streets has fallen from more than 20 to four or five.

Many town leaders believe the situation has further improved since court injunctions banning named vice girls from entering areas were introduced, leaving only a hardcore behind.

One new idea put forward by Lib Dem councillor Michael Dickinson (Lib Dem, Central) involves moving hookers from residential areas to places where they can be controlled such trading estates.

Speaking about the consultation, he said: "I think that anything which can help stop women from getting into prostitution is extremely valuable.

"My idea will help them get out and offer them protection but you will never get rid of it fully."

Home Office Minister Caroline Flint said: "Our consultation has opened up a public debate as a starting point for making progress on this difficult issue. We have had overwhelming interest."

To read the consultation paper visit www.homeoffice.gov.uk

Ben Payne