Human Trafficking: Telephone Services

Damian Green
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what his policy is on the provision of a common helpline number for victims of human trafficking across Europe; and if he will make a statement.

Maria Eagle
We recognise the need for transnational work to combat human trafficking and welcome the continued efforts of the European Union in this area. However, we foresee some difficulties with a proposed EU hotline, including issues relating to the management and dissemination of information received and language difficulties. The value of an EU hotline over and above national arrangements and existing structures would have to be demonstrated.