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19/09/2003
'Deeply offensive' Section 28 clause repealed
Section 28, the controversial clause which banned local authorities from 'promoting' homosexuality, has been repealed following the Local Government Act's receipt of Royal Assent.
The pressure group for gay rights, Stonewall, welcomed the move saying that Section 28 had "stigmatised lesbian, gay and bisexual people since 1988".
The group said that the clause was "unnecessary" and only served to spread "confusion and fear".
Ben Summerskill, Stonewall chief executive, said: “Stonewall has worked long and hard to have this deeply offensive law overturned in England and Wales. An overwhelming majority of MPs and Peers voted to repeal the clause, supported by tens of thousands of lesbian, gay and bisexual people across the country.
“A minority of vocal bigots attempted to undermine the majority will of both Houses through a ‘Son of Section 28’ clause. Thankfully their scare-mongering tactics gained no ground against common sense and decency."
New devolved powers for local councils and new financial help for small businesses also became law today.
Also contained in the Local Government Act are provision to: allow councils to fund local improvements by borrowing money without government consent; give small businesses and community amateur sports clubs a reduction in business rates; introduce Business Improvement Districts to enhance town centres and other areas; and reward councils which promote business development in their areas by allowing them to keep a proportion of their local business rates.
Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford said the new Act gives local authorities more freedom to make their own decisions, based on what is best for their area.
"We are determined to cut red tape and let councils get on with their main job - delivering good services to their communities," he said.
"All of this legislation is about building thriving, inclusive and sustainable communities and improving people's quality of life. That is our main goal. This includes repealing Section 28, an unnecessary and discriminatory law."
(gmcg)
The pressure group for gay rights, Stonewall, welcomed the move saying that Section 28 had "stigmatised lesbian, gay and bisexual people since 1988".
The group said that the clause was "unnecessary" and only served to spread "confusion and fear".
Ben Summerskill, Stonewall chief executive, said: “Stonewall has worked long and hard to have this deeply offensive law overturned in England and Wales. An overwhelming majority of MPs and Peers voted to repeal the clause, supported by tens of thousands of lesbian, gay and bisexual people across the country.
“A minority of vocal bigots attempted to undermine the majority will of both Houses through a ‘Son of Section 28’ clause. Thankfully their scare-mongering tactics gained no ground against common sense and decency."
New devolved powers for local councils and new financial help for small businesses also became law today.
Also contained in the Local Government Act are provision to: allow councils to fund local improvements by borrowing money without government consent; give small businesses and community amateur sports clubs a reduction in business rates; introduce Business Improvement Districts to enhance town centres and other areas; and reward councils which promote business development in their areas by allowing them to keep a proportion of their local business rates.
Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford said the new Act gives local authorities more freedom to make their own decisions, based on what is best for their area.
"We are determined to cut red tape and let councils get on with their main job - delivering good services to their communities," he said.
"All of this legislation is about building thriving, inclusive and sustainable communities and improving people's quality of life. That is our main goal. This includes repealing Section 28, an unnecessary and discriminatory law."
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
