Lots of tears have been shed and lots of blame apportioned to various institutions about forced adoptions (Letters, 8 July). But women have always been blamed for “getting themselves pregnant”. This comes principally from men in authority – from politicians to priests and the men at the head of the household. Always, it was the young mother who was shamed and left to bear the baby, and then lose it for ever.

I’m left wondering why the fathers of these babies seem to have been removed from the narrative of blame. Many were married and their denials were believed. Some were frightened young men without the courage or means “to make an honest woman of her” and sadly some were men in high office, or even priests, whose transgressions were quietly covered up.

How good it would be to hear their stories and for them to perhaps accept some accountability for what happened.
Jane Lawson
London