A recently surfaced dossier has revealed the names and addresses of over 300 individuals linked to the disbanded Paedophile Information Exchange (PIE), an organization that campaigned to lower the age of consent.

The legal age of consent in the UK has changed over the years, moving from 21 for male partners to 18 in 1994, and ultimately to 16.

Investigations into the dossier indicate that approximately 45% of the individuals listed have been charged or convicted of sex offenses against minors, including serious crimes such as rape and the distribution of abusive imagery.

Among those named in the dossier, nearly 70 individuals currently hold positions that may involve contact with children, such as teachers and healthcare professionals; many were approached by the BBC for comments, but their responses varied.

Active during the 1970s and disbanded in 1984, PIE controversially advocated for the legalization of sexual relations with children, suggesting that the age of consent be lowered to as young as four.

In an attempt to gain legitimacy, PIE sought to align itself with the gay rights movement during the 1970s and 80s, despite its contentious objectives.

This list of 316 individuals was previously held by the Metropolitan Police for around 20 years and has not been made public until now, raising concerns about the continued involvement of some members with children.

The emergence of this list coincides with ongoing legislative efforts aimed at holding accountable those who cover up or fail to report incidents of child sexual abuse.

Political tensions surrounding child safety have intensified, with increasing calls for a nationwide inquiry into grooming gangs, leading to criticism of the Labour government's approach to child safeguarding.