LINK BETWEEN UNDERAGE DRINKING AND TEENAGE PREGNANCY MUST BE HIGHLIGHTED - GIDLEY

12.00.00am GMT Tue 5th Feb 2008

Local MP and Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Minister, Sandra Gidley, pressed Children's Minister Beverley Hughes MP yesterday over the huge rise in local teenage pregnancies, and urged the government to address the link between underage drinking and child pregnancy.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mrs. Gidley said:

"Will she [the Minister] acknowledge that there have been local increases - particularly in Southampton, which has been dubbed the teenage pregnancy capital of the south?

"Does she agree that many young people have unprotected sex after alcohol, and what is her Department doing to ensure that children realise that there is a clear link between over-consumption of alcohol and unintended pregnancy and that they may go home with more than a hangover?"

In response, Beverley Hughes MP claimed that whilst alcohol contributes to a significant proportion of unwanted teenage pregnancies, it is local services and schools that are failing - not government policy:

"It is important that the strategy adopted locally by local authorities, primary care trusts, youth services and schools - all working together - addresses a comprehensive approach to young people.

"If all areas performed at the rate of the best 25%, national progress would be double what it is at the moment. It is a comprehensive local approach, addressing all those factors, that makes the difference."

Commenting afterwards, Sandra added:

"The government is simply passing the blame for this growing problem. We need to tackle the root causes which have led to Britain becoming the teen-parent capital of Europe. The time for talking has passed.

"The Liberal Democrats have consistently called for greater education on relationships, sex and alcohol, which would seek to give teenagers a sense of respect for themselves and others that is often sadly lacking. If the government were willing to implement such a policy, I believe we would see a real reduction in teenage pregnancy, alcohol abuse and anti-social behaviour."

ENDS