Overview

This bill amends the Children Act 1989 to classify certain legal proceedings related to female genital mutilation (FGM) as family proceedings. This change aims to improve the handling of FGM cases within the family court system, ensuring children's welfare is prioritized.

Description

The bill modifies the Children Act 1989 by adding a new clause to section 8. This addition designates specific proceedings under Part 1 of Schedule 2 of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 as family proceedings. This excludes paragraph 3 of Schedule 2. The aim is to ensure that cases involving FGM are dealt with appropriately within the family court framework, considering the best interests of the child. The bill applies only to England and Wales and comes into effect upon its passing.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The impact on government spending is likely to be indirect, potentially through increased caseload in family courts, but precise figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Children at risk of FGM: The bill aims to better protect children by ensuring cases are handled within the family court system, focusing on child welfare.
• Families involved in FGM cases: The bill will impact how these cases are managed legally, potentially leading to different procedures and outcomes.
• Family courts: The bill will increase the workload of family courts dealing with FGM cases.
• Law enforcement and social services: This bill will likely affect their procedures for dealing with FGM cases and interfacing with the family court system.

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