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Officials in the Spanish region of Extremadura have launched a major programme aimed at teaching 14 to 17 year olds "sexual self-exploration and the discovery of self-pleasure".

The campaign has sparked political and religious controversy by challenging traditional Roman Catholic attitudes to sex, chiefly the notion that sexual activity is solely for the purpose of reproduction.

The initiative’s slogan “pleasure is in your own hands” seems likely to further aggravate those opposed to the scheme.

The initiative includes leaflets, flyers, a “fanzine” and classroom workshops for the young in which they receive guidance on self-pleasuring techniques alongside advice on contraception and self-respect.

Extremadura's government is funding the campaign, budgeted at €14,000, through its youth and women's affairs departments and officials from the neighbouring region of Andalucia have expressed interest in copying the scheme.

Local opposition leader Hernández Carrón has complained that Extremadura has “become the laughing stock of Spain”, whilst others worry if the campaign might be interfering with parents’ rights.

"The campaign is simple, clear, natural and easily understood by the people it is aimed at, who are aged between 14 and 17," said Laura Garrido, president of the Youth Council of Extremadura.