Under-age sex of any kind is a worrying trend and Britain already has one of the worst records in Europe for dealing with the problem. But when the very young are ensnared into selling sex against their will and the law, usually by an unscrupulous adult, the dangers are greater still. Schoolchilden in Middlesbrough are now to receive lessons on the dangers of vice. We can only hope that the project at least raises a greater awareness of the dangers. Only by educating our vulnerable young to know that their bodies are not for sale can we ever hope to stamp out this evil trade.

Leader, May 14