A MAN has been barred from taking his six-year-old daughter abroad over fears that she might be at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM).

High Court judge Ms Justice Russell made the written ruling yesterday after being told that the girl's father came from Guinea, west Africa, where the practice of FGM was “widespread.”

The judge concluded that the man would face pressure to have his daughter mutilated if he took her to Guinea, so she imposed an FGM protection order.

She heard evidence from the girl's mother and father, who are separated, plus other family members and an academic who has researched the practice of FGM in Guinea and other west African countries.

Ms Justice Russell said the FGM protection order would remain in force until the girl turned 17.

Legislation providing for the making of such orders came into force more than two years ago. They aim to protect potential victims rather than punish offenders.