Legislation which could help the battle against human trafficking in Lambeth needs cross party support, Lambeth's council leader has said.

Councillor Steve Reed has called on local Lib Dems and Tories to support proposed changes to EU legislation which aims to strengthen work to prevent trafficking, ensure successful prosecution of traffickers and make sure victims are properly looked after.

Researchers estimate there are an average of 100 trafficked women and children facing regular abuse, including physical and sexual abuse, in Lambeth.

Coun Reed said it was astonishing the coalition Government was looking to opt out of the new rules, that are supported by many well respected campaign groups, including the Lambeth-based Poppy Project, which offers support to women and children who are freed from their abusers.

Coun Reed said: “It is unbelievable the Government is refusing to sign up to new rules that could help protect some of the most vulnerable people in our country.”

He added: "We must do everything in our power to stop this vile abuse of women and children.”

Lambeth Lib Dem leader coun Ashley Lumsden said he understood the Government was not yet opting in to legislation because the UK already met all the standards the legislation called for.

He said if there was evidence signing up to the EU directive would strengthen the fight against trafficking in Lambeth and further afield he would join the Labour administration in lobbying the Government.