Sajid outlaws ‘dark ages’ virginity tests

HEALTH SECRETARY Sajid Javid has vowed to make ‘virginity testing’ illegal as part of a clampdown on violence against women.

Mr Javid said the ‘dark ages’ practice – checking for an intact hymen on the flawed basis that its absence is the result of intercourse – would be made a criminal offence ‘at the earliest opportunity’.

He added: ‘ This Government is committed to protecting the safety and wellbeing of women and girls, and I am proud to say we have taken an important step forwards. As part of the new Violence Against Women and Girls strategy, we announced we would make virginity testing illegal.

‘ We will also ensure anyone carrying out so-called virginity testing will be prosecuted with the full weight of the law. This practice is abusive and predicated on a dark-age prejudice about what it means to be a virgin. Virginity testing has no scientific standing.

‘I’ve heard first-hand the impact these tests can have on women and girls’ physical, psychological and social wellbeing. It is abhorrent and violates their human rights.’