asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether the threat to a woman or girl of being subjected to genital mutilation (which in the UK is unlawful) is accepted as sufficient grounds for asylum.

To qualify for refugee status, applicants need to show that they have a well founded fear of persecution based on one of the reasons contained in the 1951 UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. Those who do not meet the requirements of the 1951 convention may nevertheless be granted exceptional leave to remain if there are compelling humanitarian reasons for doing so. Cases are considered in the light of their individual circumstances.