OTLEY'S MP has pledged his support to a movement aiming to end Female Genital Mutilation within a generation.

Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) reiterated his commitment to the cause following the UK's hosting of the Girl Summit 2014 last week [IE ENDING FRI JUL 25] - the first international event focused on the topic.

Mr Mulholland, who earlier this year tabled a Parliamentary motion applauding the campaign, is also calling on the Home Secretary to allow a confidential reporting process to be set up for potential victims.

He said: "FGM is an appalling, barbaric and wholly inexcusable practice - we must take a stand, break the taboo and do everything we can to stop it.

"I have pledged my support to the Girl Summit and their efforts to end FGM and child and forced marriages within a generation, and I urge everyone to join me in taking a stand and helping give girls around the world the rights they deserve.

"I will continue to support the campaign to end FGM, ensure victims can confidentially report the process, and guarantee prosecutions for anyone who carries out the crime."