Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what progress he is making on reviewing legislative provisions on positions of trust as set out in the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

I recognise the concerns about the risk to young people of those in a position of trust, abusing their position. This is an incredibly complex area and it is important that we ensure that the law is working effectively to ensure that young people are protected. Any consideration for reform in this area must achieve the sensitive balance between the protection of young people and ensuring we do not infringe upon the sexual rights and freedoms of those over the age of 16 granted to them by Parliament.

We have taken into account the findings of the review carried out on the legislative provisions on positions of trust as set out in the Sexual Offences Act 2003 and are considering next steps with both pace and care. I hope to be in a position to update the house on this work shortly.