This House of Lords Library Briefing has been prepared in advance of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, to be marked on 6 February 2019.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation: 6 February 2019 (174 KB , PDF)
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. The International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, observed annually on 6 February, aims to promote international awareness of, and encourage actions against, the practice.
This briefing provides a short introduction to FGM, before providing an overview of the prevalence of the practice globally and international initiatives aimed at stopping FGM within communities. The briefing then provides information on the incidence of FGM in the UK; sets out the legislative context for measures designed to deter FGM; and references recent parliamentary and government activity in relation to the issue.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation: 6 February 2019 (174 KB , PDF)
The Labour government has called for an “improved and ambitious relationship” with Europe, including a new UK-EU security pact and stronger bilateral partnerships with partners including France, Germany and Joint Expeditionary Force allies. This briefing outlines some of the actions proposed and undertaken by the UK government to improve ties since the July 2024 general election.
While handling record demand, the social care sector in England is facing workforce, resource and funding pressures. There are also millions of people providing unpaid care. The new Labour government has announced an intention to create a ‘National Care Service’, and to improve NHS and social care integration as part of a 10-year plan for reform.
The Labour government has set out its short- and long-term plans to reduce the pressure on prison capacity in England and Wales. This includes releasing eligible prisoners on licence into the community after they have served 40% of their sentence and building more prisons. Organisations have highlighted the risk of prison overcrowding on prisoner wellbeing. Some charities have called for better mental health support for prisoners whilst in custody and on release.
