Residents attack proposed bylaw on sex workers

A Hamilton man whose daughter died after being bashed while working as a prostitute has pleaded with the Hamilton City Council to drop a controversial sex bylaw.

The proposed bylaw distinguishes between parlour brothels (two or more workers) and private sex workers, and allows the latter in residential areas.

Around 120 people, representing a wide range of ages and ethnic groups, attended a meeting to discuss the proposal.

More than half were understood to be from the Destiny Church. No one spoke in support of the draft bylaw.

Those looking to vent their anger at politicians who backed the bylaw had only council staff and solitary supporting councillor Ewan Wilson to target.

Most opposition focused on the distinction between parlour brothels and private sex workers, who under the plans would be allowed in residential areas.

Wayne Stewart said before the meeting that his eldest daughter was 17 when she left home to live in Auckland. Nine years later, when she was a prostitute who worked alone but whose earnings were controlled by others, she died after being beaten.

He said allowing sex workers to work alone would open the door for pimps wanting control of their income to stand over them.

- NZPA