Notorious Tory MP Christopher Chope who vetoed upskirting ban sparks anger by blocking anti-FGM law

Sir Christopher Chope stepped in to block the proposed new law using arcane Commons rules.

He provoked an instant backlash from fellow Tories as top ministers said he was "wrong, pure and simple".

And a leading anti-FGM campaigner condemned Sir Christopher, blasting: "I have nothing but disgust for this man."

Tory MP Zac Goldsmith proposed a change to child welfare laws which would have allowed courts to protect children at risk of FGM.

The bill, backed by the Government, was intended to stop young kids being taken abroad by their parents to undergo the horrific and permanently damaging procedure.

But when it was announced in the Commons today, Sir Christopher shouted "object" – single-handedly stopping the law from going any further.

Mr Goldsmith called his actions "just appalling" and rubbished claims the veteran MP is only concerned about proper scrutiny of legislation.

Sajid Javid added: "Very disappointed by this. FGM is child abuse. I am determined to stamp out this despicable and medieval practice."

And Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "Outraged Chris Chope has blocked the FGM safeguarding bill in Parliament today. His actions are wrong, pure and simple."

Anti-FGM campaigner Nimco Ali personally lobbied Sir Christopher to try and convince him not to block the bill.

He refused – then accused her of "verbal abuse and insult" when she called him "an embarrassment".

She said this evening: "I have nothing but disgust for this man."

Sir Christopher rose to notoriety last year when he intervened to block a bill outlawing upskirting – when men take photos up women's skirts.

His Commons office was festooned with underwear in protest.

Source: Read Full Article