PARENTS must play a part in deciding what sex and relationship education is appropriate for their children to be taught in school, claims an MP.
Philip Davies, whose Shipley constituency includes Cullingworth and Denholme, says too often politicians want to ban things they don't like and make compulsory things they like.
Speaking during a Commons debate on sex education in schools, he asked: "What is wrong with the principle of freedom and parents having a role in deciding what is appropriate for their children to be taught?"
Mr Davies added it was the role of parents to instil values in their children and the state "could not be parents in disguise".
His comments came as Education Secretary Justine Greening said current guidance for sex and relationship education, drafted in 2000, was outdated.
She added: "The role of parents – and indeed parent involvement in making sure what children are taught at school is acceptable to them and appropriate – is absolutely vital.
"I think the most important voices that need to be listened to now are those of young people and children themselves, who are saying they do not feel they're getting the right level of education needed in this area. They want to see a more up to date approach in enabling them to deal with the world they are growing up in."
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