BACKBENCH BUSINESS

Mr Duncan Smith expressed concern about potential physical and mental health consequences for children who undergo medical processes as a result of transitioning, questioning whether the Department for Education lacks oversight in this area. Mr Duncan Smith reiterated his earlier point, questioning why there is no inspection or control mechanism in place for sex education that departs from established facts, unlike other subjects like geography and biology. Mr Duncan Smith intervened to point out that knowledge without context or consequence is dangerous for children who are unsure about their identity and the implications of their decisions. He suggested that this principle would make much of what has been proposed inappropriate for inclusion in the curriculum.

Ms Doyle-Price questioned the appropriateness of teachers discussing detailed sexual acts in sex education, suggesting that such discussions should not cross into inappropriate boundaries. My hon. Friend agrees that there is a significant problem with sex education materials being used in schools, which can mislead children on important issues such as consent and gender identity. Stressed the importance of relationships and sex education in schools due to an increasingly sexualised environment, highlighting issues like social media exposure and peer pressure. Raised concerns about harmful content being taught in schools and advocated for a healthier approach that focuses on consent and respect.

Mr. Jim Shannon supported the debate, emphasizing that relationships and sex education are essential but should not undermine a family's right to pass on their morals and values. He expressed concern over primary school children being taught about gender identity and trans issues, suggesting that they are too young for such topics. Mr. Shannon cited an incident in Northern Ireland where an inappropriate book was used in class, causing distress among parents and students.

Agreed that education materials in schools should be made public and needed better guidance from the Government on RSE/RSHE. Emphasised the importance of subject specialists in teaching RSHE, highlighting a personal tragedy to argue against restrictive approaches to sex education.

Stressed the importance of safeguarding and awareness in identifying predatory behaviour, highlighting concerns about changes to identity verification processes that could allow predators to circumvent background checks. Emphasised the need for clear red flags in child protection practices.

Stressed the importance of inclusive LGBT education in Wales, emphasizing age-appropriate materials and teacher training. Highlighted the need for schools to address online bullying and inappropriate content, while maintaining progressive educational standards.

Mr Fletcher called for immediate action to withdraw harmful educational material while deeper studies are conducted, stressing the urgency given ongoing exposure of children to inappropriate content.

We only have just over a minute left, so I call Miriam Cates to wind up very briefly.

Mr Millar expressed concerns about the inappropriate materials being used in sex education, stating that children and learners are being exposed to content that confounds their understanding of health, contraception, boundaries, and the law. He highlighted the importance of transparency for parents, governors, and stakeholders regarding these materials and called for an urgent review of guidelines.

Noted an alarming poster from Educate & Celebrate distributed in primary schools, stating 'Age is only a number. Everyone can do what they feel they are able to do, no matter what age they are.' Intervened to question whether it is disturbing that headteachers are not permitted or enabled to share RHSE material due to it being considered 'commercially sensitive'.

He expressed concerns about the quality and accessibility of RHSE, highlighting issues such as insufficient information on gender identity and inadequate training for teachers. He cited a survey indicating that almost 40% of students had not received any relevant information regarding trans and non-binary individuals. Morgan also raised questions about the implementation of Ofsted's recommendations and the need for better materials and support for educators.

Mr Loughton highlighted the chilling effect on parental responsibility due to concerns being interpreted as harm by social services, and raised questions about the mental health impact of pressuring children to question their gender identity. My hon. Friend supports the view that parents are being unfairly treated when they express concerns about their children's education in sex and relationships, with some cases leading to social services intervention.