New crackdown on female genital mutilation

Women and girls in Paisley who may be at risk from the illegal practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) at to get better protected under new legislation.

A bill passed by the Scottish Parliament aims to allow courts to issue Protection Orders, specifically designed to safeguard those who find themselves under pressure to undergo FGM.

Under the new legislation, anyone will be able to apply for a Protection Order if they have concerns that someone is at risk, including the person themselves, a local authority, Police Scotland, the Lord Advocate or another party with the permission of the court.

The Female Genital Mutilation (Protection and Guidance) (Scotland) Bill will also see statutory guidance issued for professionals and agencies working in this area.

This will provide victims of FGM and those at risk of the practice with a more consistent and holistic response from public services.

Equalities minister Christina McKelvie said:“Female Genital Mutilation is a deeply abhorrent practice and a fundamental violation of the human rights of women and girls. It is a physical manifestation of deep-rooted gender inequality.

“Introducing Protection Orders will safeguard women and children at risk.

“We will continue to work with our partners across the public and third sectors and affected communities to effectively tackle and eventually eradicate this unacceptable practice from our society.”

Female Genital Mutilation has been a specific criminal offence in the UK since the passage of the Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985.