"TIME TO BLOW WHISTLE ON DOMESTIC ABUSE" MEP

3.28.43pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 30th Jun 2006

Victims of violent and domestic abuse can rest easier today after West Midlands police launched a series of raids on homes of offenders across the region, in a move aimed at stamping out football related violence.

Liz Lynne MEP for the region and human rights campaigner, welcomed the domestic violence campaign, specifically timed to coincide with the World Cup, known to be a particularly bad period for abuse to take place.

Speaking in her West Midlands constituency today Liz Lynne said:

"Football tournaments and domestic abuse, very sadly go hand in hand. During Euro 2004, for example, police reported a 40% increase in domestic violence offences.

"I welcome the police's campaign to tackle this problem and would encourage anyone who is suffering from abuse, or suspects someone to be a victim of abuse, to speak out. There are people who can help.

"At this World Cup time we really must take action and show the red card to violence and domestic abuse."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/west_midlands/5129308.stm