NURSES are calling for prostitution to be decriminalised.

They argue sex workers are more likely to access health care such as regular STI checks.

1 Nurses are calling for prostitution to be decriminalised Credit: Alamy

And they would be able to report violent clients to police without fear of arrest.

But critics warn the move would encourage more street walkers and brothels in family areas.

Bristol nurse Lou Cahill has ensured it will be debated at the Royal College of Nursing’s annual conference in May.

Her motion seeks to decriminalise the trade, not legalise it.

The union will demand a law change if the motion is passed.

Seeking support, she tweeted: “There’s a lot of quality evidence into the health and other benefits of decriminalisation.”

The International Union of Sex Workers welcomed the debate.

It said current laws drive prostitutes underground, putting them at greater risk of physical harm and poor health.

But Tory MP Andrew Rosindell blasted: “This is a terrible idea. The RCN should focus on medical issues, rather than legal and moral ones.”

Prostitution is decriminalised in New Zealand, and legal under certain circumstances in Germany and the Netherlands.

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RCN members will also debate sexual harassment and workplace bullying at their Congress in Liverpool.

The RCN said: “Frontline nursing staff submitted these ideas.

"We will not shy away from the biggest issues in healthcare or wider public policy.”

No more 'nanny' ENGLAND’S top doctor is to quit this autumn after nine years of nannying the nation. Prof Dame Sally Davies was dubbed “nanny-in-chief” thanks to her healthy living lectures. As Chief Medical Officer she set guidelines on booze, sparking fury when she told women to think of cancer every time they wanted a glass of wine. She has been named by the Queen as Master of Trinity College, Cambridge and will be the first woman in the role.

Anger as family friendly pub decorates its men's toilets with fake prostitute calling cards