The Editor, Sir:

Why lower the age of consent to 16, while the child is living with his/her parents? The child is still going to school and the parents have to be finding everything that the child needs, yet the child can go out and have sexual intercourse? And the Government regards the same child as a juvenile? Not under my roof.

What I would like to know is who upholds the laws of this country? Where are our children going? Who is responsible for them?

Recently, a female child (aged 16) left home for seven days without being sent anywhere; when she returned, she was taken to the police station as she was previously reported missing. All I was told was that the age of consent is 16 and they cannot hold anyone responsible.

An officer (male) referred her to medical examination and counselling. I am not satisfied. There must be something better that can be done.

I am, etc.,

M.R.

St. Catherine