Letter: Male au pairs
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: I came across the nonsense with which the Home Office handles the subject of male au pairs in the mid-Eighties ('Au pair to be deported because he is not a girl', 29 August). I was Conservative spokesman on Social Affairs in the European Parliament and suddenly discovered Britain had outlawed male au pairs.
I sought an interview with the relevant official, whom I saw in Croydon. Clearly, this was one of many subjects in his keeping; he knew little about it. Asked why the government wanted this discrimination, all he could offer was: 'Well, boys are more easily corrupted, aren't they?'
The American student who accompanied me thought this a highly sophisticated argument]
I suggest the subject be looked at afresh. The au pair rules are strict and it is unlikely that males will break the UK's immigration laws more readily than girls. To persist makes us a laughing stock and is also against any possible laws on equality of employment.
Yours faithfully,
FRED TUCKMAN
London, SW13
30 August
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments