The BBC News article makes it fairly clear that they are, in fact, reporting the mother's 'allegations' - unfortunately this is not always the case as, in a previous news item about identical twins discussed here at length, the article was based entirely on the contents of a well publicised/promoted book written by the twins themselves.

I think the situation does reflect (as McGrath points out) very different cultural/legal practices.

For example, parental approval would be required for a medical examination of a minor under these circumstances in the UK and, having worked in the Childrens Services in Manchester Q you have my assurance that the 'assesment' would not have so intimately intrusive nor would the children have been deprived of their personal clothing or restricted from visiting their mother unless there were very necessary grounds for health reasons.

One thing the UK system DOES seem to have in common with the American one however are strict rules of 'confidentiality' which are unfortunately often misinterpreted by those with an axe to grind as 'secrecy' or 'cover-up'

I agree wholeheartedly with Ron that the 'standard practice', including the sending of what would appear to be a very inappropiate letter, requires review.