§ Ms McCaffertyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what guidance his Department issues to local education authorities concerning the operation of the Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985. [122495]
§ Jacqui SmithOur advice in "Working Together to Safeguard Children", which we published jointly with the Department of Health and the Home Office earlier this year, highlights the importance of focusing on preventative strategies in relation to female genital mutilation. Copies of "Working Together" were sent to all local education authorities. Furthermore, our advice to schools and local education authorities on child protection procedures in Circular 10/95, "Protecting Children from Abuse: The Role of the Education Service" makes clear that, if school staff have reason to believe that a child is at risk from any form of abuse, they should report their suspicions immediately to the school's designated teacher for child protection. The designated teacher will refer any concerns to the appropriate professional agencies to investigate further.