The case of Moira Greenslade has offered a deeply disturbing insight into today's Internet trade in babies -- which no-one apparently has powers to stop.
The callous conwoman's bid to fleece three desperate couples has exposed two urgent issues which we call on all those with influence to act on immediately.
Firstly, this case shows just how easy it is for those so minded to use the Internet to exploit couples who will go to any lengths to adopt a baby. The web site involved in this case is based in America. But it is not the only one and the question must be asked who is monitoring and controlling such sites? The answer is no-one.
The police, social services and health workers involved in the case have been shocked at the possible extent of babies being traded -- all due to the instant accessibility of the Internet
The horrific fact is that who is to know how many other children have been bought and sold in this way? Who knows what kind of a home they have gone to? No-one does.
Secondly, the Greenslade case has revealed weaknesses in the laws under the Adoption Act to deal with such cases. It is only because a charge of criminal deception was brought that the issue can go before a crown court judge who can hand out a greater punishment that magistrates.
Sadly, the only people who are breaking the law are those heartbroken couples who offer to pay to "adopt" the child. Quite rightly, no action is being considered against them.
There's no doubt it is a difficult, highly emotionally charged and complex issue, but we cannot sit back and do nothing. Pressure must be applied to Internet service providers to close down such sites. The adoption laws need urgently reviewing to give those bodies looking after the welfare and rights of the unborn child the clout they need to halt this evil trade.
Let us start by using the Internet to let our service providers know our feelings.
Let Home Secretary David Blunkett know of your concerns by e-mailing him on public.enquiries@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk and you could also write to the American Ambassador William S Farish, at 24 Grosvenor Square, London W1A 1AE, to ask for his help.
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