HC Deb 27 March 1991 vol 188 cc406-7W
Mr. Alton

To ask the Attorney-General on how many cases relating to female circumcision the Director of Public Prosecutions has received papers since 1985; and if he will make a statement.

The Attorney-General

No papers have been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions in cases in which a prosecution under the Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985 has been sought.

Cases concerning female circumcision may also be prosecuted as offences of causing grievous bodily harm contrary to the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. Information on whether any papers have been referred seeking prosecutions under this Act in such circumstances is not, however, readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.