THE Royal College of Midwives (RCM) hailed a major step forward yesterday in the battle to stop the “terrible crime” of female genital mutilation (FGM).

Parents could face prosecution under the government’s new action plan if they fail to prevent their daughters from suffering FGM.

Speaking at the Girl Summit in London yesterday, RCM chief executive Cathy Warwick also welcomed a series of other government measures to protect girls from FGM.