It is being proposed that women whose actions are impaired by drink, are incapable of giving assent to a sexual act, which will be rape.

This seems to be removing the onus for protecting themselves from drunkeness and promiscuity and placing the blame on men whose inhibitions may also have been impaired.

How can the measure of intoxication be measured, as most claims of rape will emanate from women who awake the following day and seek to absolve themselves from the possible consequences of their indiscretions by claiming rape.

Also, most courts seem to accept a plea as acting under the affects of drink or drugs to be a mitigating factor. Thus, they may then receive the customary punishment of community service.

If passed, this law will be severely detrimental to those women who have been genuinely attacked, by reducing it to a status of a misdemeanour.

W H Diment
Church Road
Laindon