Government to consider age of consent changes after rape claim

The government has stated it will consider calls to change the age of consent following allegations made by Mia Latter. Ms Latter, now 37, claims she was raped by comedian Russell Brand when she was 16 and he was 30. Her allegation is currently the subject of an ongoing Metropolitan Police investigation.

Calls for staggered age of consent

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Ms Latter publicly waived her right to anonymity and advocated for a staggered age of consent. This would make relationships between adults and 16 or 17-year-olds illegal. Under current UK law, adults of any age can legally have sex with individuals aged 16 and 17.

Ms Latter stated that it is shocking that discussions about Brand often focus on relationships with 16-year-olds. She believes there is a collective agreement that adults should not have sexual relationships with anyone under 18, and that this change is not a significant step.

Government response

Deputy Prime Minister Louise Haigh acknowledged Ms Latter's account, describing it as a "heart-breaking story". Ms Haigh told the newspaper that such experiences from victims must be central to legislative considerations. She added that while changing the age of consent would be a significant step, it warrants proper consideration and scrutiny.

Police investigation and legal proceedings

Ms Latter first met Brand in Leicester Square, central London, when she was 16. She alleges that after a three-month relationship, Brand orally raped her. The allegation was reported to the Metropolitan Police in January 2026. Detectives sought advice from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and were advised that further information was needed before a charging decision could be made. The Met Police stated the investigation remains ongoing and acknowledged the delay has been distressing for the victim-survivor, emphasising their focus on presenting the best possible evidence.

Ms Latter was previously referred to as Alice in earlier media reports. She reportedly decided not to continue with the criminal process to focus on her campaign. Russell Brand is currently serving a 10-and-a-half-year prison sentence for offences including one count of rape and three sexual assaults, for which he was convicted.