The National Vigilance Association (1885-1953) was formed as the debate over the Criminal Law Amendment Bill and Contagious Diseases Acts had drawn public attention to the severe issue of the trafficking of women and children. The Maiden Tribute of Modern Babylon, an investigation into child prostitution by WT Stead published in the Pall Mall Gazette, increased pressure on the government to ensure women and children were legally protected. In order to achieve this and support any future changes to the law deemed necessary, the National Vigilance Association was formed.