Schools stopping teaching LGBT rights - Angela Rayner responds

Angela Rayner MP, Labour’s Shadow Education Secretary, commenting on reports that schools have stopped teaching about LGBT rights following complaints by parents, said:

“These reports that schools have stopped teaching LGBT rights are incredibly alarming.

“There is not only a moral imperative to ensure that all young children receive LGBT inclusive education, there is a legal requirement too and schools must comply with the Equalities Act. There is no justifiable reason to stop the teaching of these issues.”

“I hope the Commons today will vote for the new guidance on sex and relationships education which will apply to all schools. But it is for the government to ensure that schools are supported and the guidance properly implemented. 

“Ofsted has deemed the lessons age appropriate. Now Ministers need to assure us that they are taking action to resolve these issues, including enforcement of the Equalities Act.”