Compensation for UK LGBT Veterans Marks a Turning Point in Addressing Past Wrongs

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Thousands of LGBT veterans who were unjustly ejected from the British military due to their sexual orientation or gender identity now have a path to receive compensation of up to £70,000. The move, described as an effort to correct "historic wrongs," aims to address the harm caused during a ban that spanned from 1967 to 2000.

 

John Healey, the defence secretary, has called the treatment of LGBT service members during this period a "moral stain on our nation." The ban led to the dismissal or discharge of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender personnel. Many endured not only the loss of their military careers but also harassment, mistreatment, and in some instances, imprisonment.

 

The new LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme offers £50,000 to eligible veterans who were dismissed or discharged due to their identity. Additionally, those who suffered harassment or ill-treatment, such as being sent to military prison, can claim an extra £20,000. The Ministry of Defence has allocated £75 million for the scheme, a figure that surpasses initial estimates from the Etherton Review by 50%.

 

"The historic treatment of LGBT veterans was a moral stain on our nation," Healey reiterated, emphasizing the importance of redressing these past injustices. Veterans who qualify under the scheme may also request to have their rank reinstated and the reasons for their discharge amended, offering a symbolic restoration of dignity.

 

Alistair Carns, the veterans minister, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the harm inflicted on LGBT personnel. "The treatment of LGBT people is a shameful chapter in the history of our armed forces, and we are working hard to address the wrongs of the past," Carns said. He also extended a message of welcome to LGBT veterans, affirming their value to the nation's defense and their critical contributions to its safety.

 

The compensation scheme is not only a financial gesture but also a recognition of the long-standing impact these discriminatory policies had on individuals and their families. While it is unclear how many veterans were affected during the 33-year ban, this initiative signifies a commitment to reconciliation and progress. By offering monetary redress and restoring ranks, the Ministry of Defence seeks to confront this "shameful chapter" and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in the armed forces.

 

Based on a report by Sky News 2024-12-13

 

 

 

[NedR69]

What a load of BS. If it went against their military code of conduct, why are they getting rewarded for past bad behavior.

[wombat]

Are the sandos that bad you can get compo?

[JonnyF]

More Wokies trying to feel good about themselves by giving away other people's hard earned cash. 

[Denim]

Meanwhile , the ministry of defense is considering the acquisition of 5000 exploding  handbags for any future military operations , replacing the standard Mills grenade. The ministry has defended the eye raising purchase on the grounds that the bags are multi functional and can be used to store lose ammunition in addition to which the handles make it possible to hurl the bags much further. 

Moreover , in hand to hand close combat they can block bayonet thrusts and if full , deliver crushing blows to any enemy.

 

 

[Chomper Higgot]

Excellent news.

 

Justice at last for some awful abuses of people who signed up to serve in the military.

 

Read some of the personal accounts of the treatment these members of the military were subjected to, utterly shameful institutionalized abuse.

 

[Purdey]

People sign up to defend their country all the time. The handwringing snowflakes who denied them the chance because they were so afraid of those guys should be demoted.

[Chomper Higgot]

The Government moving swiftly to pay compensation in response to the previous Government’s instigated inquiry, rather than stringing it out for years as those deserving compensation die off is a positive development.

 

https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2024-0171/

[ignore it]

What no Qs.

 

What about the queers?

 

 

[john donson]

xmas came early for the trans...