MEPs push for cross-border cooperation on criminal records

1.39.39pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 26th Sep 2006

London's Liberal Democrat MEP and European justice spokesperson, Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP, is urging EU governments to agree with MEPs and approve a measure whereby a court in one member state could take account in sentencing of a person's criminal record in other member state.

Baroness Ludford commented:

"EU citizens are strongly supportive of European cooperation to catch and convict criminals and terrorists. Sharing information between member states sends out a clear message of EU determination for criminals to face proper justice irrespective of where they commit their crimes."

"It is essential that member states pass important legislation which would knock down cross-border red tape on combating crime. Unfortunately they seem unable to agree, as is the case with the proposal on sharing information on convicted paedophiles banned from working with children."

"The 25 governments talk a lot about an EU area of 'freedom, security and justice' for EU citizens, but they are not so hot on delivering it. If John Reid wants to deliver a Home Office 'fit for purpose', he should help overhaul the inefficient Euro-system too."