JACK Straw has joined Darwen MP Janet Anderson in her race against time to make stalking a criminal offence.

The Blackburn MP and Shadow Home Secretary is calling on Michael Howard to back the Stalking Bill, which has been drafted and brought forward by Mrs Anderson.

And he wants to see the Bill, which goes before the House of Commons tomorrow (Friday), go through unopposed before the summer recess.

Mr Straw said: "In my view Janet Anderson's Bill provides an ideal vehicle to get provision on the Statute Book before the summer recess. Further delay will only mean prolonging the misery of many thousands of people.

"The legislation, which commands cross-party support, will make stalking a criminal offence and enable the police and the courts to take effective action against this social menace."

He added: "Of key importance will be the availability of a prohibitory order in the magistrates' court, a breach which would be an arrestable offence punishable by imprisonment.

"In view of this, I am calling on the Home Secretary to ensure that the Bill is given an unopposed Second Reading on May 10, and is referred to a Standing Committee of the House as soon as possible thereafter."

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