Sex and relationship education must improve

4.38.00pm GMT Mon 17th Dec 2007

Jo pressed the Minister on statutory sex and relationship education

Better sex and relationship education in schools should be at the centre of efforts to tackle health and relationship issues among young people.

That was the message from Jo Swinson today after she quizzed the Schools Minister on plans to reform sex education.

Speaking in the House of Commons to Minister for Schools Jim Knight, Jo said:

"When half of young women report that they know of at least one girl who has been pressurised into having sex with her boyfriend, surely the Minister agrees that it has never been more important for every young person to have access to high-quality education about sex and relationships."

Commenting after the debate, Jo said:

"Too often, young people are growing up without healthy expectations and boundaries where sex and relationships are concerned. With major issues around sexual health, teenage pregnancy and violence against women to be tackled, it is hugely important that we get sex and relationship education right for both boys and girls.

"The Government has announced a review of sex and relationship education in schools, which is welcome. However, given the importance of providing high-quality sex and relationship education to every child, it must be made statutory so no young person misses out."

Related Links:

Amnesty survey: girls pressured into sex

DFES sex & relationship education guidance