Allegations spark push for staggered age of consent at 16 and 17
The Guardian reported that allegations against Russell Brand and David Walliams have ignited calls for a staggered age of consent at 16 and 17.
The Guardian reported that allegations against Russell Brand and David Walliams have ignited calls for a staggered age of consent at 16 and 17. Barristers say the law does not adequately recognise power imbalance between young people and much older adults. Campaigners favour a staggered consent law and some Labour MPs have voiced support. Victims’ commissioner for England and Wales Claire Waxman has urged “serious conversations” on the potential for legislative change.
Supporters argue that a tiered approach would give greater protection to 16‑ and 17‑year‑olds from sexual exploitation by older adults.
Why it matters
If adopted, a staggered consent law could strengthen legal safeguards for teenagers against exploitation.
Key details
- Location
- United Kingdom · Europe
- Reported by
- The Guardian
- First reported
- Key names
- Allegations, Russell Brand, David Walliams, Labour MPs
- Section
- Politics
Sources
This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:
Read the full story at The GuardianSpotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced
Related Stories
UK ministers weigh new legal powers to protect women in entertainment
The UK culture secretary, Lisa Nandy, is set to meet senior figures from television, film, publishing and possibly sport next week.
Jonathan Ross says he is horrified by Walliams and Brand revelations
TV presenter Jonathan Ross said he is "as horrified by the revelations about David Walliams and the crimes of Russell Brand as the rest of the…
Parents pull David Walliams books from shelves after abuse claims
The Guardian reported that families are removing David Walliams titles from their homes following sexual offence allegations against the author.
Metropolitan police open criminal probe into David Walliams over sexual misconduct allegations
The Guardian reported that the Metropolitan Police have opened a criminal investigation into comedian David Walliams, 55, over alleged sexual…
Maryland senator Van Hollen challenges Schumer for Democratic Senate leader
The Guardian reported that Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen has announced a bid to unseat Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for the Democratic…
Andy Burnham calls on Labour to re‑arm against Conservative comeback
The Guardian reported that Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has urged the Labour Party to “re‑arm” for a potential Kemi Badenoch‑led recovery.
Chuck Schumer’s challenger for party control underscores Democrats’ ideological rift
Senator Chris Van Hollen’s policy credentials allowed his quick rise to roles usually reserved for the more tenured US politics live – latest…
Reform UK funds Nigel Farage's security despite his claim of £5 million gift
Nigel Farage’s personal security costs are being paid from Reform UK’s central funds, contrary to his earlier claim that a £5 million gift from a…