§ Mr. HopkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what measures are being taken in schools to(a) promote the safer sex message and (b) reduce unplanned pregnancies. [172577]
§ Mr. Stephen TwiggTeaching about safer sex is a key element of the Government's sexual health strategy and is covered by our Sex and Relationship Education (SRE) guidance which was sent to all schools in July 2000. All maintained secondary schools have a statutory responsibility to teach SRE including sexual health, contraception and the range of advice and support services which are available.
Effective SRE should ensure that young people understand the reasons for delaying sexual activity, including unwanted pregnancies, and give them the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions.