LOCAL MP Janet Anderson was today celebrating a double triumph after John Major caved in to Labour
Yesterday the Prime Minister announced that proposals to crack down on stalking and child molesters, originally suggested by her, would become government legislation.
Earlier this year the government blocked measures put forward by the Rossendale and Darwen MP, whose constituency includes North Turton, to outlaw stalking and to set up a paedophile register.
In yesterday's Queen's Speech, ministers said proposed bills on the issue would have to be taken forward by backbenchers.
But under pressure from Labour leader Tony Blair, last night Mr Major announced that they would become part of the government's programme after all. Now a delighted Mrs Anderson is celebrating a victory over petty party politics.
With opposition support guaranteed, she hopes to see the two measures on the Statute Book within two weeks.
She said: "What matters to me is not whether it's a Labour or a government bill, but that these two measures become law quickly.
"Party politics doesn't matter but the thousands of victims of stalking, mainly women, do.
"Both these bills were mine originally and I am delighted at the turn of events. I and Labour are concerned about the protecting the innocent."
Today Mr Major denied that his change of heart was a climb-down and said: "I want this legislation and I want it speedily. And the reality is that that is what is going to happen."
But Shadow Home Secretary and Blackburn MP Jack Straw said: "This must all rate as the fastest U-turn in the history of even this weak and indecisive government."
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