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You say that if someone has been drinking there is a higher possibility that she has consented, however this is EXACTLY the issue that the new Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009 will set about to address with redefining consent as "free agreement". I don't agree with the supposition that women who are drunk are more likely to consent, I do think that women who are drunk may be less likely to actively be able to "withold" their consent (for example, they may be disorientated, close to passing out, confused, etc). Therefore, in cases where a lot of alcohol has been consumed, a man should be especially vigilant in gaining consent. Put simply, if you're unsure; DON'T DO IT. Men aren't animals, you all have just the same faculties for self control as the rest of us.

There's also a plethora of research carried out into the frequency of false allegations of rape, and these have squarely found that false allegations account for between 2%-8% of all allegations of rape made to the police. That's to the police, not allegations which eventually make it to trial. Therefore this idea that the majority of rape allegations are made by women that are vindictive or "regret it" is a complete and utter fallacy, made up to demonise women and to belittle the heinous crime that is rape.

Might I also add that whether there has been drink consumed or not, sex with an under 16 year old is statutory rape in any circumstance, even if the girl gave "consent" (legally, under 16 year olds cannot give consent to sex). I would refute most men's claims that they "didn't know" the girl in question was under 16. Like with consent, if you've got to ask then it's probably too dodgy to go there. I can't believe you would come on here and advocate that men should get away with raping children (which is essentially what you're saying). I really despair at how the minds of people like you work.

Author: Dawn, Female, Glasgow
Date: 30/06/2010

Gary - I want you to imagine that you've gone to the pub and had one too many to drink. On your way out of the pub, a guy grabs you, drags you into an alley and starts to anally rape you.

You try to fight him off, you say no - but he's much larger than you are and the alcohol has spent the world spinning and everything you try to push him away just leads him to keep going harder.

When he's finished, he leaves you slumped in the alley.

You sober up enough to stumble, bleeding and injured to a police station - you tell them what happened.

"How much have you had to drink, sir?" the officer says. "About 6 or 7 drinks, I think" you slur in reply.

The officer hands you a breathalyser and tests you - finding your BAC to be over 0.05. With a shrug, the officer says "I'm sorry sir, but the amount of alcohol you've had tonight has removed any ability you might have had to withdraw consent for sexual intercourse. There's nothing we can do for you. You might want to keep that in mind for next time"

Yes, Gary - I do find your 'idea' offensive and I don't think I'd enjoy spending time with you socially after this display of your values. Saying that though, I wouldn't wish the above scenario on even you - so how can you so casually suggest that it should apply to millions of young girls across the UK? You should be ashamed of yourself.

Author: Peta, Female, Australia
Date: 01/07/2010

So sorry to hear what happened Sharlene. You don't have to go through these feelings on your own though. I know that Rape Crisis Scotland have a helpline you can ring if you think it might help to talk about it (it's 08088 01 03 02). And can I just say - it was definitely not your fault what happened - no way.

Author: Kathleen, Female, Edinburgh
Date: 02/08/2010

I'm sorry to hear that too...My niece over here in the u.s. was sleeping at a friend's house and her friend's brother stuck his hands up her shorts and she woke up much the same way...I don't honestly know much of how she has reacted, she's never been the touchy feely type with anyone, but now to me it seems worse...it's so sad what happens today and that nobody wants to recognize the part that pornography plays in men and boys' attitudes.

Author: kristina, Female, united states
Date: 06/08/2010

Thanks alot. It is a really good feeling to know that people are listening hopefully it makes them more aware. It will still always be in my mind as i see the man that done it nearly everyday, he stays close to me. And i just remembered the mans girlfriend was in the next room pregnant to him when it happened it really sickens me.

Author: sharlene, Female, coatbridge
Date: 16/09/2010