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<p>The focus of Government activity with regards to prostitution and sex work is to
tackle the harm and exploitation that can be associated with it, and we believe that
people who want to leave prostitution should be given every opportunity to find routes
out.</p><p>The Government has commissioned a research project into the prevalence
and nature of prostitution in England and Wales; to inform the evidence base before
any changes are made to policy and legislation in respect of prostitution. This independent
research is being led by the University of Bristol and we anticipate receiving their
report in the Spring this year.</p><p>It is illegal to keep a brothel in England and
Wales, or to allow premises to be used as one, and the law does not distinguish between
types of brothel.</p><p>Enforcement action is an operational matter for the police,
who are in the best position to identify and respond to issues related to prostitution
and sex work in their communities. They are supported in this by guidance developed
by the National Policing Lead for prostitution, which emphasises the priority given
to protecting vulnerable people from harm.</p>
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