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British lawmakers warm to Europol

LONDON, June 7 (UPI) -- Support for the European Police Office is a vital ingredient of British national security against organized crime and terrorism, a British lawmaker said Friday.

A British parliamentary report to the government recommends ongoing cooperation with the European Police Force. David Hannay, chairman of the House European Select Committee, said Europol is vital to British national security.

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Hannay said Europol provides British law enforcement agencies with crucial information to help fight domestic and foreign organized criminal elements and terrorism.

An April report from Europol said unrest in parts of the Middle East and North Africa posed a unique threat to members of the European Union.

"We consider that the U.K.'s continued participation in Europol is an important part of ensuring the safety and security of British citizens," Hannay said.

British lawmakers said the government should get in line behind proposals to strengthen Europol by broadening the ability to share information among member states.

Interpol and Europol signed an agreement in France last year to coordinate efforts to tackle transnational organized crime.

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