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.’
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2021-07-25T07:00:00.0000000Z
2021-07-25T07:00:00.0000000Z
https://mailonline.pressreader.com/article/284979677788906
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