Published: 2024-01-17 by, News Team

UK Government U-Turn On LGBTQ Military Ban Debate

Parliament will engage in a comprehensive debate on the treatment of veterans expelled from the military for their sexual orientation, marking a government reversal.

Until 2000, the armed forces banned LGBTQ individuals. The debate, initially pledged in July following an independent report on the ban, was initially cancelled but is now slated for 2024. Veterans affected can express interest in applying for reparative schemes.

Over a thousand veterans shared experiences of bullying, assault, and expulsion without support in the LGBT Veterans Independent Review led by openly gay judge Lord Etherton. Andrew Murrison MP confirmed the government's acceptance of the review's intent, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak issuing an official apology. Veterans can now apply for non-financial restorative measures online, while financial compensation details will follow in the next year.

The government warns against a limitless compensation fund, prompting military charities to request the £50m cap be lifted. The Royal British Legion expresses concern about the fairness of the cap, emphasizing the need for recognition and compensation for the sacrifices made. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps encourages veterans to register online to address historical wrongs, acknowledging the unacceptable treatment of LGBT personnel from 1967 to 2000.

A full debate in Parliament has been welcomed by campaigners, including Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes, who underscores the importance of scrapping the compensation cap for veterans. Emma Riley, a former Royal Navy radio operator, appreciates the apology and plans for a memorial, emphasizing the significance of non-financial aspects in reclaiming lost pride.

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