Statement from Peter Tatchell
London – 12 December 2024
Statement regarding reports of increased compensation for LGBT+ veterans sacked from the British military on grounds of their sexuality and gender.
“I welcome the announcement of increased compensation of up to £70,000 for LGBT+ veterans who were unjustly sacked, and sometimes jailed, by the military.
“This is an important step towards righting the terrible wrongs inflicted on these service people, who were stripped of their jobs, housing, pensions and medals, simply because of their sexuality or gender identity.
“However, no amount of money can truly compensate for the lives shattered, the trauma endured, and the income and career opportunities lost due to past military homophobia.
“The original offer of £12,500 compensation was a derisory insult. It is only through the determined campaigning of Fighting With Pride and the Peter Tatchell Foundation that we have achieved this improved figure.
“While it is progress, even the maximum payment of £70,000 is not adequate recompense for those LGBT+ military personnel whose lives were wrecked, and mental health shattered, by discriminatory policies.”