MP urges tighter controls to safeguard women

An MP has urged the Government to tighten the law against the illegal practice of female genital mutilation (FGM).

Heather Wheeler, (pictured) who represents South Derbyshire for the Tories, pressed her case during a debate on the issue at Westminster Hall.

She said nurses in schools in other countries had a duty to tell the authorities if they treated any victim of FGM - a practice not shared by the UK.

Mrs Wheeler also asked why restorative medical treatment was not granted automatically under the NHS.

According to the MP, the Government said it would ‘look further into the issue’ and provide her with further information.

Mrs Wheeler said: “I am in regular contact with many South Derbyshire groups such as the Soroptimist International’s Burton and district branch and the Melbourne and District Amnesty International group, who work to campaign on behalf of women’s rights.

“FGM is illegal in this country and for British citizens abroad.

“I am delighted we had the opportunity to debate this.”

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