The Gibraltar Women’s Association (GWA) has said that it welcomes the debate in Parliament regarding co-education.

A statement continued: “Due to inequalities in the comprehensive schools including different subjects and opportunities offered to the different genders, it is imperative that the topic is discussed objectively following an extensive investigation which includes all stakeholders and moved forward with, without further delay.

“A process similar to the one on same sex marriage to include the opportunity for public consultation would be welcomed. The facilities in both schools are also very different, for instance better resources in the girls’ school, which reduces opportunities for their male counterparts.

“It is simple aspects such as this that lead to unacceptable differences in schooling due solely to gender and in general the facilities need updating. We also hope that the Government review the legal school leaving age which is currently 15 to standardise with the UK and instead offer vocational opportunities for those children who do not excel academically.”