Debate over how to reduce sexual violence

The gathering outside parliament to mark the "One Billion Rising" movement Credit: ITV News Central

MPs have been debating how to reduce sexual violence against women and girls. It coincided with a gathering outside parliament to mark the "One Billion Rising" movement. The campaign launched on Valentines Day 2012 in response to the staggering statistic that 1 in 3 women will be beaten or raped during their lifetime. Midlands MPs took part in the debate and the gathering outside to show their support.

Valerie Vaz, Walsall MP, said it was time to recognise that sexual violence affects millions of women all around the world. Heather Wheeler MP condemned the high numbers of women being forced into marriage at a very young age.

A backbench motion, calling on the Government to introduce statutory provision for personal, social, health and economic education including a zero tolerance approach to violence and abuse in relationships, was passed without a vote.

Valerie Vaz MP Walsall South and Heather Wheeler MP South Derbyshire: