Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 28
28
Accepted
Border monitoring for FGM prevention requires improved training, follow-up, and inter-agency communication.
Conclusion
Border monitoring is an effective mechanism for preventing FGM being carried out on UK citizens and residents taken abroad. However, evidence suggests that monitoring could be made better through improved training of border officials, better follow-up of suspected cases, and enhanced communication between different agencies. (Conclusion, Paragraph 83)
Government Response Summary
The government highlights existing, regularly reviewed and updated training for Border Force officials, including mandatory e-learning, and ongoing joint operations like 'Operation LIMELIGHT' and the Forced Marriage Unit's outreach programmes to address FGM.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
Response: Border Force has a key role in identifying victims and perpetrators of FGM as they cross the UK border. Border officials receive training in how to identify and deal with any vulnerable person including those at risk of FGM. This training is reviewed and updated to ensure it continues to fulfil those ICIBI (Independent Chief Inspector for Borders & Immigration) expectations. Training includes mandatory e-learning on recognising and preventing FGM. A rolling programme of joint Police and Border Force operations called ‘Operation LIMELIGHT’ takes place at airports, seaports and international rail stations around school holiday periods, targeting inbound and outbound traffic to and from countries with a high prevalence of FGM, forced marriage and other harmful practices. Where a British National or habitual resident has been taken abroad for the purpose of FGM, the joint Home Office and FCDO Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) can provide support including via consular services. This can include engagement with Border Force. The FMU run an extensive programme of outreach and training to frontline professionals, including to border officials, to help them spot the signs and effectively manage cases of forced marriage and FGM.