The post Emily Thornberry MP: ‘UK government wasted golden opportunity to improve LGBTQ+ rights’ appeared first on GAY TIMES. Go to Source Author: Emily Thornberry MP
Read MoreTheresa May has called on Boris Johnson to ban trans ‘conversion therapy.’ Over the last few years, LGBTQ+ activists in the UK have urged the government to ban the practice in its entirety. ‘Conversion therapy’ is typically defined as any attempt at changing a person’s sexuality or gender identity, often involving techniques such as electroshock therapy or prayer. In 2018, the former Prime Minister committed to ridding the country of the harmful method. However, since her departure, Johnson has yet to make significant changes. Back in April, the government made…
Read MoreMPs finally debated banning ‘conversion therapy’ for all LGBTQ+ people after a petition on the issue reached more than 145,000 signatures. The discussion, which took place on 13 June in Westminster Hall, lasted for around two and a half hours and saw representatives from a number of parties advocate for a full and comprehensive ban of the practice. Among them was Jeremy Corbyn, MP for Islington North and former Leader of the Labour Party, who compared the current situation to “the grim days of Section 28”. “The proposal to not…
Read MoreQueen Elizabeth II is expected to give an update on banning ‘conversion therapy’ during her annual speech at the state opening of parliament. Each year, the Queen gives a speech that sets out the programme of legislation expected to be pursued in the forthcoming parliamentary session by the government. Although exactly what she will announce remains unclear until the day, which bills are on the agenda is usually clear – as is the case with a ‘conversion therapy’ ban. “Measures will be brought forward to address racial and ethnic disparities…
Read MoreThe UK government is set to reveal a new strategy for LGBTQ+ rights, including the prioritisation of improving NHS gender services. The new strategy is set to cover an array of other issues such as IVF, sex work and homelessness, The I newspaper reported. Equalities Minister Mike Freer is set to announce the measures in April before they are fully launched at the government’s LGBTQ+ conference later in the year. “The big part of the portfolio that Liz [Truss] has asked me to do is […] to work across government,”…
Read MoreThe UK government has announced plans to extend its consultation on banning conversion therapy by eight weeks. According to a statement released by the government on 9 December, the move has been taken to ensure the legislation can be shaped appropriately and to take as wide a range of views as possible into consideration. “We are absolutely determined to stamp out conversion therapy, and want to hear all views on the best ways to do that,” said Minister for Women and Equalities Liz Truss. “The consultation on our proposals has…
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