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

Describes his experience of growing up under section 28 with homophobic attitudes, noting that he did not overcome these until university. He praises the positive attitudes of his children's peer groups towards LGBTQ+ people.

Responded with 'In due course!'

Jamie Wallis acknowledged the importance of setting standards and role models while also valuing public feedback, including from colleagues who may hold differing views. He emphasized the need to address hate crime numbers in Wales despite positive government actions and noted that it is a difficult time for many people due to the toxicity surrounding gender identity issues. Noted that even if a ban or Bill might not result in many prosecutions, it is important as a signal and marker for culture. Suggested using the fact that section 28 never yielded a prosecution but was still significant legislation.

Acknowledges the need for this debate but stresses the importance of parents having a say in their children's education, highlighting hundreds of emails from constituents on the issue.

Ms Cherry reminisced about the campaign against section 28 in Scotland, highlighting her involvement as a university student and the role of lesbian activists. She discussed the repeal process and emphasised the distinct nature of protections for same-sex attracted individuals compared to trans rights under the Equality Act 2010. Ms Cherry expressed concerns over modern pressures on young lesbians and the need for organisations like LGB Alliance to support them. Joanna Cherry took issue with another speaker's stance on amending the Equality Act to define sex as biological sex, stating her support for this amendment not out of hatred towards trans people but because it ensures women's rights to safety and privacy. She also mentioned concerns over male-bodied individuals in single-sex women's refuges and lesbians' inability to run exclusive events without men insisting on access. Asked about compensation for LGBT individuals who were humiliated and thrown out of the Army, suggesting the Government should give active consideration to financial compensation as recommended by the review.

She recalled the historical context of Section 28 and expressed concern about public attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals. She noted that only 27 years ago, such experiences were common, emphasizing the significant progress made since then. Kirsten mentioned a statistic where 75% of people surveyed in the past said being gay was 'mostly or always wrong', highlighting how societal views have changed. She also pointed out the harmful impacts of Section 28 on individuals' mental health and the ongoing issues like conversion therapy and gender recognition.

Thanked the Chair for saving the debate, congratulated the lead MP on securing it, and paid tribute to pioneers of gay rights. Mentioned personal experiences teaching in a school during section 28's implementation and how it hindered open discussion about LGBT issues. Criticised recent Conservative actions against LGBT+ people and called for action on conversion therapy, Gender Recognition Act reform, tackling hate crime, and non-homophobic/transphobic rhetoric.

Peter Gibson discussed the progress made since the repeal of section 28, highlighting the positive changes in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals. However, he noted ongoing challenges such as the need for a ban on conversion practices and rising homophobic attacks. He also mentioned the importance of global efforts to support LGBTQ+ rights, referencing the situation in Ghana where being gay is illegal. Expressed frustration and disappointment over repeated promises that have not materialised for nearly 11 months, urging the Minister to provide some hope today.

Thanks the right hon. Friend for securing the debate, reflecting on personal experience under section 28 as a repressed young gay man. He highlights Wales's inclusive relationship and sexuality education curriculum that respects diversity. There is a significant problem with groups, often religious fundamentalists, spreading misinformation about what is actually taught in schools. Teachers do an excellent job in ensuring young people understand the inclusive society we live in.