It might be worth mentioning that the rules about having to obtain a visa if you have been arrested or convicted of a crime for entry into the US have been in place for some years, long before the terrorist attacks of 9/11.

Those potential visitors in this category just have to apply for a visa and are not automatically denied entry into the US as all cases are considered on their merit. Most applicants with the type of one off minor offenses will be issued with a visa - they just can't use the visa waiver method of entry to the US.

To be fair, the UK also has similar rules for visitors or immigrants who have criminal convictions - check out the regulations for entry into the UK here http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/servlet/Fr...=1041606064820