why is the age of consent for homosexuals 18 when for hetrosexual it's 16?

Question

My friend Alec wants to know cos he's only 17.

Answer 1

Predudice carred over from history when homosexuality was a criminal offence.
Write to your MP - or send a petition

Answer 2

I've read some rubbish in my time, but some of the answers to this question are just hilariously stupid; reinforcing the age old attitudes of the unwashed and the unknowing.

For a start, the questioner may not be in England, which would explain the question. The legal age in the UK is 16, irrespective of the age of any sexual partner who has also reached 16+.

Other countries have different laws; some setting the age of consent at 18, some at 15 and others at 14. If I recall correctly, Japan sets the age at 13.

The reality is that boys around the age of 11 tend to play around sexually with each other, but it's amazing how "normal" men forget this when they have a girlfiend or wife. They can be such liars.

To all the heterosexual women on here, I can assure you that your other half/boyfriend, has probably done it with another male, even if they deny it.

Answer 3

Social (and the resulting legal) attitudes toward the appropriate age of consent have drifted upwards in modern times. For example, while ages from 10 to 13 were typically acceptable in western countries during the mid-19th century, 15 to 18 had become the norm in many countries by the end of the 20th century.

Answer 4

Its not 16 in my state. If there is an age difference of 4 years or greater it is considered rape be it gays or heteros.

The classic consenting age is 18 here but the judge can rule that the person is an adult in some cases.

Answer 5

From what I understand, the age of consent for homosexuals in the UK is 16. This is because the UK has integrated the European Human Rights Act into its law - and this prohibits discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation.

Answer 6

Of course it depends where you live, even in the UK.

In England, Scotland and Wales, the age of consent – the age at which the law says you can agree to have sex – is 16 for both heterosexual (straight) and homosexual (gay) sex. In Northern Ireland, both people have to be over 17.

Answer 7

In the UK the age of consent is 16. Period.

Don't you think it's about time that politicians butted out of the bedroom? (no pun intended!)

I'm finding it hilarious that people believe the age of consent actually matters in a sexual relationship! Just because you may be "legal" doesn't mean that you should have sex!

Answer 8

Why is it impossible for people to spell properly. Firstly 16 is the age of consent for gays here in England. No idea where you are from, but here the word is heterosexual. Learn to spell and stop embarassing others who need to point this out.

Answer 9

Officially the law is in place to stop older gays abusing younger boys who are confused about their sexuality.

Though the scenario of a 17-year-old who for example has consensual gay sex with an 18-year old is very very unlikely to result in criminal proceedings, even if the police did find out (and why would they) they would likely do nothing.

People mature at different ages and if your friend is comfortable with his sexuality and feels ready for sex with someone he is in a loving relationship with then personally i don't see why he shouldn't go ahead.

Answer 10

Here in the UK the age of consent for all is 16. We're somewhat more progressive than the USA (and rather less homophobic).

Answer 11

In the UK is is now 16. This was changed as the government forced it through.