Written question asked by Lord Lester of Herne Hill (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Adonis (Labour) on Thursday, 30 March 2006.

Schools: Sex Education

Question: Whether they will introduce measures to protect schools and their staff giving sex education to their pupils against the campaign by the UK Life League.

Answer: We do not believe any school should be deterred from providing a comprehensive programme of sex and relationship education tailored to the age and maturity of pupils. Guidance on sex and relationship education was issued to schools in July 2000. This sets out the statutory requirements on schools in relation to sex education, including the requirements to teach pupils aged 14 to 16 about contraception. Schools must set out their approach to sex and relationship education within a policy available for inspection by parents. Schools following this guidance are acting within the law and should seek support from their local authority advisory service, and police where necessary, if subject to any intimidating activity from campaign groups.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4990; 680 c150WA
Session: 2005-06
Subjects: Bullying Curriculum Protest Schools Relationships and sex education
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk