INVERNESS does not need lap dancing shows, according to a Highlands and Islands MSP who is seeking to criminalise the purchase of sex.
Labour politician Rhoda Grant has added her voice to the growing opposition to an application by the city’s Hush nightclub to stage lap dancing sessions.
The request, to be considered by the Highland Licensing Board on Tuesday, has already prompted disapproval from women’s activists and religious leaders who fear it would lead to sexual exploitation.
Their concerns are shared by Mrs Grant who has also proposed a bill in the Scottish Parliament last year seeking to outlaw the purchase of sex in Scotland.
She maintained by criminalising those who use prostitutes, demand for prostitution would be reduced.
Mrs Grant acknowledged lap dancing was not prostitution but maintained it was still putting women up for sale.
"Lap dancing is the commodification of women," she said. "While it might not be directly purchasing sex as such it’s along the same vein. You’re paying women to come in and dance.
"This is not something that Inverness wants or needs and I hope that the council will take that in its view when they make a decision on this."
No one was available for comment at the nightclub in Academy Street but the venture is being backed by a company which stages lap dancing in Aberdeen.

