Walliams allegations prompt calls for staggered age of consent at 16 and 17

Barrister say law does not adequately recognise power imbalance between young people and much older adults

Allegations against Russell Brand and, separately, David Walliams, which he denies, have led to calls for greater legal protection for 16- and 17-year-olds from sexual exploitation by older adults.

A staggered consent law is one route favoured by campaigners, supported by some Labour MPs. Claire Waxman, the victims’ commissioner for England and Wales, has called for “serious conversations” on the potential for legislative change.