AN action plan to tackle high teenage pregnancy rates in parts of North Yorkshire is being drawn up.

It includes ensuring young people get good education on sex and relationships, talking to carers and parents about their role in educating young people, studying the role of school governors, and what local authorities are doing to help combat the trend.

The plan is being drafted by the county council, supported by the authority's young people scrutiny committee.

Hugh Williamson, head of scrutiny and corporate performance at county hall, said the strategy would include asking the public whether young people should be encouraged to abstain from sexual relationships until they are over 18.

Research will also be carried out into the incidence of teenage pregnancy across the county linked to deprivation, poverty, and educational attainment.

Young people will be questioned on aspects of sex education.