SAY SORRY TO LGBT FORCES
Former veterans minister calls for apology from PM
BORIS Johnson is being urged to say sorry to LGBT+ troops jailed or dismissed because of their sexuality.
Former veterans minister Johnny Mercer wants the Prime Minister to give them “a national apology”.
Mr Mercer said: “It’s the least he can do for the pain they have suffered. Our armed forces are now the world’s best for LGBT inclusion but that was not always the case.
“A national apology and compensation will go some way to repairing the damage done to so many lives.”
Up to 20,000 LGBT+ forces staff were drummed out of careers they loved until the services gay ban was lifted in 2000 following a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights.
Some were jailed or forced to endure shaming rituals by having medals ripped from their uniforms.
Now the Cabinet Office has ordered an independent review of their treatment in a victory for the Sunday Mirror’s campaign alongside support charity Fighting With Pride.
Home Secretary Priti Patel has already offered veterans pardons and the inquiry will consider possible compensation for loss of earnings and pensions.
Former Army lieutenant Elaine Chambers, 61, of the Isle of Wight, said: “Veterans remain distrustful of those in power after the appalling way we were treated.
“I am looking for reparation to offset decades of financial hardship.”
Former Navy medic Chris Ferguson, 60, of Edinburgh, added: “The Navy was everything to me. When I was dismissed for being gay I ended up homeless. Compensation would help heal that trauma.”
Labour MP Dan Carden said: “This review must lead to full reparations and compensation to right these historic wrongs.”
Fighting With Pride joint chiefs Craig Jones and Caroline Paige added: “We look forward to working with Government to achieve an honourable outcome for LGBT+ veterans.”
LGBT+ vets can contact FWP at fightingwithpride.org.uk.