Paedophiles to face Tougher Sentences across EU

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 14th Jun 2001

Lib Dem Euro-MP Diana Wallis has welcome European Parliament support for EU legislation which will impose tough common sentences against internet paedophiles and anyone involved in the sexual exploitation of children.

When the legislation becomes law, it will require all Member States to enforce common penalties for illegal acts to produce, distribute, offer, transmit, or acquire child pornography. Diana Wallis MEP welcomed the Parliament's decision: "Paedophilia and child exploitation, especially linked to the internet, is a terrible and growing problem in Europe and worldwide. It must be stamped out.

"The recent case of the internet-based paedophile ring called 'Wonderland Club' showed the need for international co-operation and effective cross-border legislation.

"The recommendations seek to ensure that children are protected from exploitation and that anybody found guilty of such acts will face stiff common sentences throughout Europe.

"There must be no hiding place for paedophiles trying to escape justice by moving to a Member State where penalties are not as tough as they are in Britain and some other parts of the EU.

"This legislation sends a clear message that anybody who exploits a child sexually or engages in Internet paedophilia will be severely dealt with throughout the European Union."