Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that victims aged between 13 and 16 are adequately protected under section 75 of the Crime and Policing Bill, in light of findings from the Casey Review.

In its final report to government, the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse recognised that in limited circumstances, a different approach to mandatory reporting may sometimes be necessary when considering sexual activity between teenagers – for example, kissing (where a reporter otherwise has no concerns about the situation).

Section 75 of the Bill therefore provides reporters with some leeway on how to proceed where a child is over thirteen and in a consensual relationship with another young person. It does not mean a situation involving underage sexual activity should be met by indifference or inaction by those in positions of responsibility for children.

Guidance accompanying the commencement of the duty will make clear that sexual relationships involving teenagers under the age of consent should be referred to a relevant agency for advice and support where appropriate.