Tory MP Sir Christopher Chope Blocks Anti-FGM Legislation

Tory MP Christopher Chope has blocked a bill that would have aided the prevention of female genital mutilation (FGM) of children. 

There was an audible groan from MPs in the Commons on Friday when the 71-year-old MP shouted “object!” to the bill getting a second reading.

Parliamentary rules mean it only requires one MP to do this to block a bill’s progress once time for debate has concluded.

It is the second time he has moved to halt the progress of anti-FGM legislation.

The bill, tabled by Lord Berkeley, would amend the Children Act to allow the courts to issue protection orders if they think a child is at risk of FGM.

It is supported by the government and Theresa May restated her commitment to end the practice earlier this week when she invited anti-FGM campaigners to Downing Street.

Chope was previously heavily criticised for deploying the same tactic to make upskirting a criminal offence.

The MP for Christchurch argued he was blocking the legislation because there was not enough debate on the issues – rather than necessarily objecting to the proposed law.