Female Genital Mutilation

Debate between Baroness Williams of Trafford and Baroness Masham of Ilton

Thursday 7th March 2019 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

One thing the noble Baroness might find helpful is that it is an offence to fail to protect a girl from FGM. She mentions schools—clearly, they have not only a safeguarding role but a welfare role. Professionals are now being trained to look out for the signs of whether a girl has gone through FGM, forced marriage or another form of illegal practice.

[Baroness Masham of Ilton (CB)]

My Lords, is the Minister aware that in 1985 I took the first bit of legislation on female circumcision through your Lordships’ House and that the noble Lord, Lord Glenarthur, who is here today, was the Minister? This shows how difficult the situation is, as there have been several bits of legislation since 1985.

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

I commend the noble Baroness for the work she did back in 1995—

[Baroness Masham of Ilton]

In 1985!

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

In 1985—even further back. I also commend my noble friend Lord Glenarthur. The noble Baroness points out the difficulties of this. If people, particularly family members, are reluctant to come forward, it becomes very difficult to drive out. However, we have made a small amount of progress, and certainly some of the FGM protection orders that we have introduced have helped to stop girls from being cut.