THE government has been condemned for failing to go all the way in tackling British child sex perverts who commit offences abroad.

Hyndburn Labour MP Greg Pope wants Home Secretary Michael Howard to allow the prosecution of Britons who commit sex crimes against children overseas.

Mr Howard is backing a Bill making it a crime to organise or encourage child sex tourism but will not make it an offence in British law if crimes against children are committed abroad.

Mr Pope said: "I have been contacted by many constituents who are disgusted at the government's opposition to passing a law which would allow the prosecution of British people who commit sexual offences against children in other parts of the world.

"I share these concerns and believe children throughout the world should be protected from sexual abusers.

"I am deeply disappointed by the government's continual refusal to introduce the full range of legislative measures which are necessary to combat this evil trade." Mr Pope backed moves by Shadow Home Secretary and Blackburn MP Jack Straw to press on the government a comprehensive strategy dealing with control of child pornographic material, child sex tourism and abuse of the young in Britain.

Mr Pope added: "Child prostitution is the vilest manifestation of child labour.

"It exists against a background of extreme poverty and is a growing problem at home and abroad demanding a national and international response.

"The British government is failing in its clear moral obligation to protect children from sexual exploitation."

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