Archaic attitude to sex education is putting children at risk, says Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd

The government’s "archaic attitude" to sex and relationship education (SRE) is putting children at risk, says Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd.

His comments came after the Women and Equalities Committee issued a statement saying that the government’s response to its report on sexual violence and harassment in schools does not go far enough.

Mr Lloyd said: “It’s not just about teaching the birds and the bees anymore. Our society is changing and the government’s archaic attitudes to sex and relationship education is not evolving with the times.

“Despite ongoing calls from campaigners, educators and politicians alike, the government is burying its head in the sand and failing to get a grip on this urgent situation. Their response to the excellent work of the Committee is weak and inadequate, and their refusal to act is putting our children at risk from serious mental and physical harm.

“Relationships are built online now, not just face to face, and while young people are often streets ahead of their parents when it comes to technology and social networking, many lack that maturity to make the right judgements for themselves and others.

“Sexting, consent, sexual exploitation, revenge porn, online grooming – these are real issues facing children today, and all of us, including police, politicians, parents and educators, must play a part in helping them safely navigate this modern world.”

This is not the first time Mr Lloyd has challenged the government on this issue. In March of this year, he wrote to the then education secretary Nicky Morgan calling for compulsory sex and relationship education in all schools.

Campaigners argue that without a robust, compulsory SRE/PSHE framework to give young people a good understanding of healthy relationships, consent, trust and mutual respect, children are left to indulge in risky behaviours without the insight to protect themselves.

The Women and Equalities Committee will hold a follow-up inquiry into the government’s response to its report and intends to question Education Secretary Justine Greening MP on the issue in January. In advance of this, Mr Lloyd will be writing to Ms Greening urging her to call for a stronger government response on this issue.