Yvette Cooper MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, responding to Tory divisions over the European Arrest Warrant, said:

“The Government should be listening to legal experts highlighting the huge benefits we get from being part of the European Arrest Warrant. Last year over 1,000 foreign criminals were deported to face charges in other countries and we were able to bring over 100 British citizens back to our country to prosecute them for crimes committed here. The police have been clear that pulling out of the EAW would make it harder for them to keep the public safe.                               

“The Government is in chaos over the EAW – reports of a rebellion of almost 100 and the papers the Home Office need to submit to hold a vote in disarray. This is less about protecting the country from crime and more about Tory political positioning ahead of the Rochester and Strood by-election. 

“On Monday, the Labour Party will be voting to remain part of the EAW. We won’t be soft on crime - and the Tories shouldn’t be either.”