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LGBT Veterans Independent Review
31 October 2024
Lead MP
Oliver Ryan
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHS
Other Contributors: 3
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.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
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.
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
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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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.