David Cameron condemns forced marriages

Prime Minister David Cameron has described forced marriage as “little more than slavery”, as the UK government announced plans to make it a criminal offence south of the Border.

Parents who force their children into a marriage will face jail in what Mr Cameron said was a “clear and strong message” that the practice would not be tolerated.

Campaigners have warned criminalising forced marriage altogether could deter victims from coming forward.

However, the Prime Minister said: “To force anyone into marriage against their will is simply wrong.”

Under the plan, forced marriages will become a criminal offence in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The scale of sentences available will be set out in the legislation.