Influx of workers for Olympics could lead to rise in sex trade

Thousands of construction workers, expected to arrive in London for 2012 Olympics could cause a surge in prostitution, health experts have warned saying it could also lead to the spread of sexually transmitted infections. Workers will be coming to the country in huge numbers for large scale construction activities related to the Olympics.

The rise of prostitution could also lead to the spread of sexually transmitted infections, The Times reported today.

Olympics officials are being asked to address the impact of the predominantly male construction workforce, which is likely to total more than 1,00,000 over the next four years.

More than 1,000 people are already working on preparing the site, with a further 2,000 scheduled to begin arriving within weeks as work starts on the stadium.

Health organisations have warned that thousands of prostitutes, including trafficked women, are likely to arrive in the run-up to 2012.

They are calling for extra staff in sexual health clinics to address a predicted rise in sexually transmitted infections And for preventive measures, such as sex leaflets in various languages and condom distribution.

The Terrence Higgins Trust (THT), the HIV and sexual health charity, is calling for an urgent meeting with the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) and the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games.

Lisa Power, policy director for the trust, said, "There will be increased sexual activity at the Olympics and in the run-up. There will be migrant workers, mostly men, separated from their families.