Irons under fire over paedophilia comments

ACTOR Jeremy Irons was yesterday criticised by child welfare groups after saying “hysteria” over paedophilia was damaging relations between adults and children.

In a BBC television programme to be shown next week, Irons suggests that society - while protecting children - should not become so rigidly obsessed with paedophilia that it prevents adults demonstrating affection to children.

“It’s very difficult because children under 16 are immensely attractive, any father will tell you,” Irons said. “We have to accept that, understand it for what it is and not become hysterical about it.”