Children as young as 12 can now get pregnancy testing kits and emergency contraception at chemistsNEWS that girls of 12 can get the morning after pill at their local chemist should serve as a wake-up call to society, says Swindon's bishop.

Yesterday's front page story in the Advertiser, which revealed girls aged 12 to 19 can now get free emergency contraception, shocked many parents.

And Father Liam Slattery of St Mary's Church, Pinehurst, said he would be taking matters further.

But The Right Reverend Lee Rayfield said he understands the dilemma facing Swindon Primary Care Trust.

He added steps need to be taken to stop children dabbling in sex.

"The morning after pill is not really a form of contraception but a means of preventing the further development of a fertilised egg after conception," he said.

"It has been designed for taking in emergency situations and an 11 or 12-year-old girl becoming pregnant would certainly fall into that category.

"So I can understand the PCT authorising its use by children in this way.

"However, what worries me and most responsible adults is what it flags up to our society.

"Our children are swamped by images and messages which encourage sexual activity without any meaningful relational foundation or emotional maturity."

Mr Rayfield thinks sex should only be part of long-term relationships.

He said: "Our sexuality is a gift to be explored and enjoyed within committed, long- term relationships.

"The shock we feel in the wake of this news is another wake-up call to us as a society to address the key issues and not the symptoms."

Last week it was announced that Swindon has the worst record for teenage abortions in the south west. Figures show there were 24 terminations per 1,000 girls aged under 18 last year.

Under the new scheme, youngsters will be given free emergency contraception and pregnancy testing kits by chemists, who have been given special training.

In return the youngsters will be expected to make an appointment with a contraception nurse. There is no requirement for parents to be present when contraception or pregnancy kits are offered.

In the scheme

Lloyds Pharmacy, Cavendish Square, Park South

Kingswood Pharmacy, Kingswood Avenue, Park North

Train's Pharmacy, Rodbourne Road

Lloyd's Pharmacy, Clive Parade, Cricklade Road

Highworth Pharmacy, Sheep Street, Highworth

Kevin Shoesmith Health reporter