Intention was not to draw parallel between single mothers and criminals

My previous letter, “Unequal benefits for single unwed mums a matter of deterrence” (Aug 3), has been misunderstood in that my intention was not to draw a parallel between single mothers and criminals.

I highlighted that kidnappers, terrorists and prison terms achieve their deterrent effect by inflicting pain on the loved ones.

Likewise, I meant to show that the denial of benefits, by inflicting pain on the child, was meant to disincentivise single motherhood.

The analogy to criminal behaviour would have made it clear that I am in favour of the provision of benefits to single mothers.

It was perhaps satire, but in bad form, and I apologise for it.

I am glad that the online community responded to discriminatory, hateful opinion with their support for mothers and innocent children.