5 of 55

Write now Article Tools

Prostitution is not, and never has been against the law in the U.K. Having said that, just about everything associated with it is illegal in one way or another. It is therefore illegal to solicit for the purposes of prostitution, to loiter for the same purpose, to live off immoral earnings of others and to run or work in a brothel.

In my opinion, making loitering and soliciting an offence is justifiable when it is carried out in residential areas or other places where ordinary members of the public congregate. I have no objection to someone providing sexual services for money; I do object to those with no involvement or interest having to witness or be dragged into such transactions. However, the current law means that both prostitutes and their clients; for kerb crawling; face the possibility of prosecution no matter where the negotiations take place.

I cannot see why a brothel should be illegal. Personally, I would have thought that legalising and regulating such establishments would remove the risk of exploitation that often exists. Obviously, the location of such places needs careful consideration but legalised brothels exist in other countries seemingly without problems.

By allowing girls to solicit openly in particular areas and allowing legalised brothels, there would, hopefully, be less opportunity for pimps and others like them to exploit the situation. Nonetheless, in the interests of the general public, I do not believe that all the controls should be removed.

Learn more about this author, Celia Craske.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Legalization of prostitution?
We want to hear your view. Write now!