The theory is put forward that it is essential to fingerprint children from the age of six (or lower) since this would be useful in the fight against child trafficking. The same argument is used to support the proposal that children under 12 should have a separate passport.

There is, however, a lack of objective data to substantiate these assertions. Is the Council aware of any studies that confirm the link between the taking of fingerprints at an early age and a decreased risk of child trafficking?

This answer, which was drawn up by the Presidency and is not binding on either the Council or its Members, was not given orally during Council Question Time at the July 2008 part-session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

The Council is not currently aware of any studies that confirm the link between the taking of fingerprints at an early age and a decreased risk of child trafficking.