Call to legalise prostitution

A report calling for the legalisation of prostitution is to be debated by councillors in Stoke-on-Trent.

The aim is to control the spread of prostitution and de-criminalise the women involved.

The report's authors believe it could prevent massage parlours opening near schools and are also calling for more support for women who want to leave the sex industry.

A spokesman for Stoke-on-Trent City Council said the problem of prostitution was no worse than in any other urban area.

Job training

If the measures are approved, it could become legal for sex services to be offered in licensed establishments in the city.

Other recommendations include providing appropriate housing for women involved in in the sex industry.

Those women wanting to leave the industry could also be offered improved support, education and job training.

Councillors will discuss the report on Thursday afternoon before any recommendations go to the chief executive of Stoke-on-Trent City Council.