Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

LGBT Veterans Independent Review

31 October 2024 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Oliver Ryan Labour (Co-op) Burnley

Women & EqualitiesVeterans

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Oliver Ryan raised concerns about lgbt veterans independent review in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP highlighted historical injustices faced by LGBT veterans from 1967 to 2000, including discriminatory practices and policies.
  • The speech praised Lord Etherton's review for revealing ongoing barriers and inequalities experienced by LGBT veterans.
  • Minister acknowledged the unacceptable treatment of LGBT service personnel between 1967 and 2000 and praised Lord Etherton's review.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Oliver Ryan Labour (Co-op) Burnley

The MP highlighted the historical injustices faced by LGBT veterans, including discriminatory practices and policies from 1967 to 2000. He praised Lord Etherton’s review for revealing ongoing barriers and inequalities experienced by these individuals today. The speech also acknowledged the work of the Fighting With Pride charity and shared specific cases of veterans who suffered due to the ban, such as Steven and David. It emphasised the need for targeted services addressing mental health issues faced by LGBT veterans and called for a more substantial financial redress fund than the current £50 million offered by the previous government.

Other contributors (3)
  • Gideon Amos Lib Dem Taunton and Wellington

    The MP congratulated Oliver Ryan on securing the debate, supporting the recommendations of the Etherton review. He shared a case study involving his constituent Mark Shepherd who was dismissed from the RAF due to his sexuality.

  • Chris Ward Lab Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven

    The MP highlighted one specific case, Steve, who joined the RAF in 1971 but faced imprisonment and dismissal for being gay. He questioned whether capping payments at around £12,500 per person is appropriate given the level of injustice suffered by LGBT veterans.

  • Tim Roca Con Macclesfield

    The MP reflected on how discrimination against LGBT individuals in the armed forces was due to fear and bigotry. He supported compensation for those let down but worried about a cap of £12,400 deemed insufficient by many.

Government Response

Alistair Carns

The Minister thanked Oliver Ryan and other MPs who contributed to the debate. He acknowledged that the treatment of LGBT service personnel between 1967 and 2000 was unacceptable, and praised Lord Etherton's review for addressing long-standing injustices. The Government has implemented 33 out of 49 recommendations, including sending apology letters to affected individuals, reissuing medals, and hosting ceremonies welcoming back LGBT veterans. The remaining focus is on fully addressing the 16 outstanding recommendations, particularly those relating to financial redress. A fund for this purpose is being finalised, with a target of opening the application window by the end of 2024. The Minister emphasised the need to consider applicants' needs at each stage and ensure timely payments are made.

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