Tory MEPs fail to support LGBT rights- again - 2012-05-24

Once again, British Tories have shown their party’s true colours. Together with the UKIP-led extremists, the Tory-led ECR Group were the only political group in the European Parliament not to co-sign a resolution calling for an end to homophobia in the EU and Eastern Europe.

The motion was passed with overwhelming support today by almost all political groups, including Greens, nationalists, Liberals, the far left, as well as mainstream centre-left and centre-right groups.  After refusing to co-sign the text, the Tories overwhelmingly failed to support paragraph 9 on equal marriage.

"David Cameron may say one thing in Notting Hill, but in reality they are the same old homophobic Tories," said Michael Cashman MEP, who co-authored the text.

The motion strongly condemns EU countries (Lithuania, Latvia and Hungary) and non-EU countries (Russia, Ukraine and Moldova) that have laws, or are considering laws, similar to Margaret Thatcher's infamous Section 28. These laws will fine (up to £10,000) or imprison people for saying homosexuality is normal in order to "protect children".

This tactic is being used to stop gay prides from taking place, to outlaw the discussion of homosexuality in schools or with teenagers, and to reduce public tolerance and understanding of LGBT people.

"British Tory MEPs should be called to account for their homophobic views. Their Neanderthal opinions are just out of tune with everyone: their Lib-Dem coalition partners, the British public, and the vast majority of Europeans," Michael Cashman said.

› Back