WUNRN
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Illegal
Prostitutes and Customers both Liable to Prosecution |
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THE HAGUE, 28/04/09 - Both illegal prostitutes and their customers will be liable to prosecution. This is stated in draft legislation that has been approved by the cabinet. "All types of sex businesses (brothels, clubs, escort agencies, cinemas, massage parlours) will require permits. Registration will be compulsory for all prostitutes. Customers who make use of illegal prostitution will be liable to prosecution because by doing this, they maintain a form of prostitution in which abuse and exploitation can occur more easily. Moreover, there is a risk that these prostitutes are victims of human trafficking or are illegal immigrants to the Netherlands," Home Affairs Minister Guusje ter Horst and Justice Minister Ernst Hirsch Ballin explained. "By means of permits, local authorities can control where and how many brothels or other sex industries are established. They may choose not to allow any brothels at all, but in this case, they must produce arguments relating to public order, safety or health." Prostitutes can be prosecuted if they work without being registered or work in a business that has no permit. "The permits for prostitution businesses will include conditions relating to the health, safety and right to self-determination of the prostitutes." To obtain a permit, sex businesses must have a fixed address with a telephone landline. For escort agencies, the permits will be incorporated into a national register, to give a better overview of this part of the sector. "The legislation is intended to regulate the prostitution sector, not to obstruct the legal part of the sector". |
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