Submitted by Janet Otache on Friday 6th February 2026
Published on Thursday 19th March 2026
Current status: Open
Open until: Saturday 19th September 2026
Current Signatures: 28
(count is updated approximately hourly)
Review and revise age of consent in light of advances in science
In light of scientific evidence, showing the human brain (prefrontal cortex) is not fully developed until between 21-30, l am asking the UK Government to review & revise the law to protect to our vulnerable children from emotional, physical, and mental harm.
Currently UK law allows adults to engage in sexual activity with a child of 16 upwards, including adults of 20, 30, 50 and 60. Scientific evidence shows the prefrontal cortex (the decision making part of the brain) isn't fully developed. 16-year-olds are still learning grasping life-long decisions and consequences. This leaves them vulnerable to manipulation, sexual exploitation, unwanted pregnancies, STDs and spiritual harm. The consequences of the harms of this are real and can have lifelong effects.
If you want to sign this petition (as opposed to merely discuss it), you need to do that on the government's e-Petitions website.
216.73.216.231 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:21:42 +0100