The Government has, quite rightly, condemned the actions of Sudan in
their treatment of British teacher Gillian Gibbons.

However, while they are mounting their high horse and complaining
loudly about 'unfair' laws, maybe they should take time to consider
some of the equally grotesque and discriminatory practices inflicted
on their citizens in the UK.

As a father, I have been targeted by the Government and labeled as a
'deadbeat dad'. I have been ordered to hand over so much of my income
that I will be forced into literal poverty. Despite the fact that I
have always cared and supported my child, I'm told that I must pay
again, and a crippling arrears bill has landed on my doorstep.

No justification has been given for the amounts I have to pay. I have
no right to challenge the actions of this Government through a fair
legal process. I will lose my home and I will lose the ability to
financially support myself.

I face the prospect of having my driving licence removed, and
therefore my right to earn a living removed. I have no right to
challenge this decision in a court. I could lose my passport, taking
away the fundamental right of free passage in and out of the country.
Bailiffs can kick down my door and remove the few hard-earned
possessions I have managed to accumulate through the years, selling
them for pennies.
My credit rating will be ruined, removing any prospects of owning a
house in the future.

At least Gillian Sheppard appeared before a judge to argue her case. I
don't even get that privilege.

The CSAs practices are every bit as bad as the Government in Sudan.
Granted, I don't face the prospect of 40 lashes, but given the choice
between that and spending the rest of my life at the mercy of the CSA,
I'd take a whipping and get it over and done with.

Gary.