Pubs that host lapdancing are exploiting a loophole in the law, campaigners have claimed.

Protestors say that pubs can host erotic dancing without applying for a special "sex encounters" licence.

A demonstration was held in Tonbridge on Saturday calling for tougher regulations for adult entertainment.

The Gender Equality Kent Organisation (GEKO) claims that the current loophole - which was created when licensing laws were changed in 2003 - means that residents do not have a say about whether such clubs can open on their doorstep.

A petition collected by the group will be sent to Tonbridge and Malling MP Sir John Stanley (Con) and Tonbridge and Malling council’s licensing committee.

Campaigner Helen Long, of Barden Park Road, Tonbridge, said: “Due to a loophole in the law, lapdance clubs are licensed in the same way as cafes and karaoke nights.

"Not only does this stop local people from having a voice, it prevents our local authority from applying vital regulations and restrictions to lapdance clubs.”

She is backing a 10-minute Rule Bill introduced to Parliament last month, which says that venues should be forced to apply for a sex encounter establishment licence before they can host any adult entertainment.

It would put lapdancing clubs in the same category as sex clubs.

There is only one pub in the Tonbridge and Malling borough which hosts stripping shows - The Harp Inn, in East Peckham - and councillors claim they already have powers to enforce strict conditions and step in if problems arise.

Licensing committee member Cllr Ann Kemp (Con) said: “We don’t really have a problem here.”

Sir John said he will pass GEKO’s petition to MP Hazel Blears, Secretary of State for Community and Local Government, asking what she will do to introduce new legislation.