Protests against LGBT school lessons continue

BBC Newsnight has reported that schools across England have received letters opposing the teaching of relationships and sex education (RSE) and LGBT equality.

Originating in Birmingham, a series of protests have spread and letters, predominantly written from conservative Muslims, have been sent to a number of schools elsewhere.

Due to start in schools in 2020, compulsory relationship and sex education lessons are being criticised as pupils were given books featuring transgender children and gay families. Supporters of the lessons said there was a ‘lot of misinformation’, but BBC has revealed that letters opposing the lessons have been sent to schools in Birmingham, Bradford, Bristol, Croydon, Ealing, Manchester, Northampton and Nottingham.

Wes Streeting, a Labour MPwho is openly gay and co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims, said: "When you are standing alongside people talking about the proselytising of children, a homosexual agenda, promiscuity, I'm afraid you're homophobic."

A representative from the Department for Education said: "Pupils should be taught about the society in which they are growing up. These subjects are designed to foster respect for others and for difference, and educate pupils about healthy relationships."