In the post-#MeToo era we are much more alert to power imbalances in relationships; it’s time employers started exercising their duty of care
Imagine an older man, in his late 40s, in a position of swaggering power and influence. A cabinet minister, maybe, or an industry bigshot.
He meets a starstruck 15-year-old desperate to get into the business, and encourages her to apply for a job in his office when she’s old enough. It’s an unbelievable opportunity and so, after turning 18, she follows it up and gets the job. Shortly afterwards, this kindly (and did I mention married?) mentor begins sleeping with this grateful now 20-year-old mentee, who is younger than his own daughter. What would you think of him?
Gaby Hinsliff is a Guardian columnist
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