HC Deb 27 June 1996 vol 280 c184W
Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what proposals he has to modify regulations to facilitate the granting of asylum to women asylum seekers who claim that they are seeking to avoid genital mutilation in their countries of origin; and if he will make a statement; [34159]

(2) how many women asylum seekers have sought asylum over the past 10 years on the grounds that they are seeking to avoid genital mutilation; how many were granted asylum; and if he will make a statement. [34160]

Mr. Kirkhope

The statistical information requested is not held centrally.

To qualify for refugee status, applicants need to show that they have a well-founded fear of persecution based on one of the reasons contained in the 1951 United Nations convention relating to the status of refugees. Those who do not meet the requirements of the 1951 convention may nevertheless be granted exceptional leave to remain if there are compelling humanitarian reasons for their doing so. Cases are considered in the light of their individual circumstances.