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Earlier this year, Samantha Niblett, the Labour MP representing South Derbyshire, initiated a campaign called Yes Sex Please, We’re British! This initiative quickly attracted both humor and criticism, earning Niblett a new nickname related to her bold advocacy. She notes that while in the past being called the “sex MP” might have carried negative connotations, she hopes to transform this perception through her work. The campaign focuses on promoting education around consent, respect, and healthy relationships, aiming to reduce abuse and violence.
The campaign, which recently held its launch event in London, seeks to challenge the stigma attached to discussing sex openly. Niblett acknowledges that much of the backlash—including opposition from some fellow Labour Party members—motivates her further to push this agenda. As part of the campaign’s ongoing efforts, an upcoming exhibition in Parliament will feature sex toys and educational materials to emphasize the importance of frank conversations about sexuality.
Statistics underline the urgency of the campaign’s goals. The Crime Survey for England and Wales reported that nearly 16% of individuals aged 16 and above—approximately 7.7 million people—have experienced sexual assault since turning 16. Among these, 1.9 million were victims of rape, with the vast majority being female. Advocates for improved sex education argue that inconsistent teaching in England’s secondary schools has led to pressing issues around sexual health and awareness. Notably, Labour MP Alistair Strathern has introduced legislation to make relationships and sex education mandatory for 16 to 18-year-olds, building on a campaign by survivor-led group Make It Mandatory, which garnered over 106,000 signatures.
Samantha Niblett works alongside sex educator Cindy Gallop, who opposes the idea of pornography functioning as a default source of sex education. Gallop has previously highlighted that the combination of widespread online pornography and societal reluctance to discuss sex has distorted young people’s understanding of healthy sexuality. Despite facing criticism from politicians across parties, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and others who prefer debates focused on issues like the cost of living, Niblett maintains the campaign’s political but non-partisan nature. She emphasizes that advocating for lifelong sex education is essential and should be supported at the government level, aimed especially at the Departments of Education and Health.
Niblett also stresses the importance of breaking down taboos surrounding sex toys, which are part of her campaign’s message about pleasure and communication in sexual relationships. She points out the irony that while courts expect survivors to recount traumatic sexual experiences, society still hesitates to openly acknowledge positive sexual experiences. With official confirmation that sex toys are allowed on the Parliamentary estate, Niblett plans to use them as educational tools aimed at reducing stigma and expanding understanding.
The MP, who now chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Sex and Reproductive Health, has garnered support not only from within Parliament but also from public figures such as actress Emma Thompson, who endorses the campaign’s critical, non-partisan stance. Niblett hopes that the current government leadership will back her call for a dedicated ministerial position focused on sex education and wellbeing. While initial reactions within her party included some reluctance, recent support from backbenchers and cross-party members suggest growing recognition of the campaign’s seriousness. Niblett remains optimistic about shifting the conversation, encouraging others to overcome embarrassment and champion the cause of comprehensive, lifelong sex education
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