§ Mr. Deakinsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science, pursuant to the answer of 3 June, Official 317W Report, column 480, if he intends that sex education should now be part of the core curriculum in maintained primary and secondary schools; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Chris PattenThe Government believe that, in the course of their period of compulsory education, all pupils should receive sex education as an essential element in the curriculum. Subject to the enactment of the Education Bill currently before the House, it is, however, for the local education authorities and schools to determine the way in which sex education should be provided for pupils in different age ranges, needs and circumstances. My right hon. Friend has already announced his intention shortly to publish a draft circular giving guidance in this field.