The name game: what to do at the airport if your children don’t have your surname

It’s supposed to stop child trafficking, but making families take extra documents if they don’t share surnames just catches those who have deviated from the hetero-nuclear norm

The Home Office has released its seasonal advice for parents travelling with children whose surnames they don’t share: take supporting documents to avoid being cross-examined at customs. Well, not exactly – it’s closer to: “Expect to be cross-examined – then make sure you have supporting documentation if your child fails the cross-examination.”

Birth or adoption certificates are preferable, but other recognised proofs are divorce and death certificates, or a letter from the parent with the right surname, or if you prefer, the proper parent.

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from Children | The Guardian https://ift.tt/2OgXWBd