WOMEN are still at risk from stalkers because the Government has failed to outlaw the persecution of women Rossendale & Darwen MP Janet Anderson told Blackpool Labour Conference.

The Shadow Minister for Women condemned Home Secretary Michael Howard for his delaying tactics and said action to create a new law, making stalking a criminal offence, was vital.

Mrs Anderson said: "Two weeks ago, Margaret Bent wept bitterly as she described her anger, disappointment and fear as the man accused of making her life a misery walked free.

"She is not alone in her living hell. Three thousand people, mainly women, suffer similar torment every year. These are the victims of stalkers. "You would think that, in the face of such serious, premeditated harassment which causes enormous public concern and affects thousands of women even this Government would act.

"Yet all they offer is a consultation paper and no guarantee of legislation.

"Those who describe stalking as merely a nuisance should speak to a victim.

"When victims turn to the police for help, they are sympathetic, but can do little other than give them a mobile phone, a panic button in their home and drive past their house every so often.

"Stalkers know the law is powerless to stop them.

"We need a criminal sanction against stalkers and women need it now.

"I proposed one six months ago but Home Secretary Michael Howard deliberately blocked my Bill.

"It is a crime for which the victims of stalking will never forgive him."

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