§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action she is taking to ensure that the law relating to female circumcision is monitored and enforced; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleWe are determined to eradicate this abhorrent practice. The Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985 makes it an offence to carry out any of the procedures which are known as female circumcision, but which are more accurately described as female genital mutilation. The Act also makes it illegal to aid, abet, counsel or procure the carrying out of these procedures. Further legal protection is provided by the Children Act 1989.
In October 1991 we issued guidance entitled "Working Together Under the Children Act 1989" to all local authorities, health authorities, the police, the probation service, schools, doctors and a wide range of voluntary organisations working in the child care field. This guidance contained advice on the 1985 Act and on dealing with FGM. We provide funding for FORWARD—the foundation for Women's Health and Development, which works to educate the relevant communities and the professionals concerned about FGM.
To date, there have been no prosecutions under the 1985 Act. This may be because it can be difficult to acquire evidence. Any information we receive about specific instances of alleged FGM is sent to the police, and we ask others to do likewise. It is for the police to investigate any such allegations and discuss with the Crown prosecution service how to proceed. When appropriate, we also pass details to the General Medical Council, the local social services department, and the district health authority, if the offence is said to have taken place in a private hospital or clinic registered and inspected by the DHA.