Yvette Cooper MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, ahead of the vote in the House of Lords this evening on an amendment to the Children and Families Bill to introduce compulsory sex and relationship education, said:
 
“Today, the House of Lords has a chance to make a real difference to the lives of young people by voting yes to compulsory sex and relationship education in English schools.

“One in three teenage girls say they’ve had to put up with unwanted groping or harassment at school, and one in six teenagers in relationships say they’ve experienced sexual abuse. Urgent action is needed to change attitudes and behaviour to prevent growing violence in teenage relationships. 

“Compulsory sex and relationship education is key to this. Children and teenagers must be taught zero tolerance of violence in relationships and the importance of respect and sexual consent.  Given the growing exposure teenagers have to sexual images on the web, statutory guidance for teachers must be updated for the internet too.

“Despite overwhelming support from parents, teachers, young people and women’s organisations, the Government is opposing these changes and will try to block them again today. The House of Lords should show them they are wrong to turn their backs on the next generation by voting yes to compulsory sex and relationship education.”