British MPs last week voted through the first stage of the “Abstinence Education for Girls” Sex Education Bill. This indicates to me that in general MPs feel males have no control over their “needs” and “desires”. This bill once again puts the onus on females to become the “moral gatekeepers” in – what should be – a modern society where both sexes are treated – or should be treated – equally. It is – IMHO – a dangerous precedent for a Government to set.

Gender stereotypes continue to play a function in societal judgments about the role of girls as being moral “gatekeepers”. There is no reference in the entire bill of educating boys in the same manner. While turnout was low for the vote (which will ensure sex education for girls includes ‘information and advice on the benefits of abstinence from sexual activity’ is covered in all schools), the bill will continue through the process of becoming law. The vote for this “10 minute private member´s bill” – 128 MPs present, 61 against, 67 in favour. This bill will get its second reading 20 January 2012.

The wording of the Bill implies that sole responsibility for ensuring sexual relationships are safe, fulfilling and consensual lies solely with women and girls. Education about sexual activitiy should be aimed at ALL children regardless of gender.

This bill is demeaning and woefully misguided – a message that can lead to victimisation, victim-blaming and dangerous stereotyping.

All children and teenagers have a right to high quality, comprehensive and objective sex and relationship education (SRE) in all schools, including ‘faith’ schools, which would – and should – equip young people of both genders with the information and skills for both sexes to say “no to sexual activity”, if that is what they choose, “freedom of choice” is our right.

This Bill illustrates the influence of a growing movement with vested interests in promoting and imposing a narrow, unshared and potentially damaging perspective regarding gender, sex, sexual health and abortion rights.

IMHO – this is just one step in their campaign to add “religious-bias” to sex education in our schools.

Whilst everyone agrees it is imperative ALL children have a healthy attitude to sex – and receive a solid education in this field – it should not be targeting girls alone – thus ensuring the blame, once more, lies solely at the door of women in matters of sexual activity.

I understand bill is “fronted” by Conservative MP Nadine Dorries.