UK government to consider staggered age of consent after Russell Brand case

The UK government announced it will look at calls to introduce a staggered age of consent following new allegations against comedian Russell Brand, as reported by The Standard. The proposal would make sexual relationships between adults and 16‑ or 17‑year‑olds illegal, a shift from current law that permits such contacts.

Mia Latter, now 37, waived her anonymity to describe being raped at age 16 by Brand, who was then 30. She told The Sunday Times that adults should not be allowed to have sexual relationships with anyone under 18, and urged lawmakers to act.

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First Secretary of State Louise Haigh responded to the interview, saying Mia’s “heart‑breaking story” means a law change deserves consideration, as reported by The Standard. She added that victims’ experiences must be central to any legislative review.

Police investigation continues

The Metropolitan Police confirmed detectives launched an investigation in January 2026 after receiving Latter’s allegation, as reported by The Standard. A police spokesperson said officers sought advice from the Crown Prosecution Service and that further information is required before any charging decision can be made.

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The Crown Prosecution Service said it will keep working closely with investigators to ensure cases progress as quickly as possible, as reported by The Standard.

We need to listen to Mia and other victims like her who have been through these experiences, because it’s really important that as lawmakers their experience is at the heart of what we consider.

Louise Haigh, First Secretary of State

Brand is currently serving a ten‑and‑a‑half‑year prison term for one count of rape and three sexual assaults, as reported by The Standard. The sentence was handed down after his trial at Southwark Crown Court.

What happens next

The government is expected to commission a review of the age‑of‑consent framework, with any recommendations to be presented to Parliament later this year. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police will continue gathering evidence, and the Crown Prosecution Service will decide whether to bring charges based on the ongoing investigation.