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Section 28 Repeal: 20th Anniversary — [Mr Virendra Sharma in the Chair]

29 November 2023

Lead MP

Ben Bradshaw
Exeter
Lab

Responding Minister

Stuart Andrew

Tags

Crime & Law EnforcementHousingWomen & Equalities
Word Count: 11311
Other Contributors: 9

At a Glance

Ben Bradshaw raised concerns about section 28 repeal: 20th anniversary — [mr virendra sharma in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The lead MP asks the Government to avoid repeating past mistakes by not reversing inclusive sex and relationship education in schools and ensuring guidance supports all young people. He also urges for action against conversion therapy and gender recognition reform blockades.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Exeter
Opened the debate
The lead MP is concerned about the historical impact of section 28, which he experienced personally and caused a culture of shame and silence for LGBT individuals. He notes that while there have been significant advancements since its repeal in 1988, recent years have seen worrying signs of renewed moral panic targeting transgender and non-binary people, with Britain's fall from being one of the best countries to live as LGBTQ+ to 17th in Europe. The MP also highlights hate crime against LGBT individuals increasing and stresses that some families are not supportive or affirming of their LGBT children, leading to issues such as homelessness among young LGBT people.

Government Response

Stuart Andrew
Government Response
The Government Minister acknowledged the impact of section 28 and praised Britain's progress in LGBT rights. He noted that only 11% of the public approved of same-sex relationships when it was introduced but now the country celebrates Pride parades annually. The minister committed to continuing work on tackling issues related to conversion therapy, promising further details 'in due course'. He also highlighted the importance of inclusive education and support services for victims of conversion practices. The statutory guidance on relationships, sex and health education is under review with a public consultation planned in 2024. Additionally, he mentioned government actions such as an apology to LGBT veterans and commitments to end new HIV transmissions by 2030.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.