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Gay news: Gay hate finally becomes illegal
By: John Howard
Seven years for inciting hatred
Seven years for inciting hatred
Incitement to hatred punishable by up to seven years in prison
As of today, it is an offence to incite hatred against people on grounds of their sexual orientation.
The law, which effects England and Wales, can punish offenders with up to seven years in jail, and is in line with laws prohibiting racial hatred.
"The newly-extended criminal offence of incitement to hatred will go some way towards addressing the hatred and violence directed towards lesbians, gay men and bisexuals in Britain at a time when homophobic attacks are on the increase,” said Ben Summerskill, chief executive of Stonewall.
"It sends a strong signal that such behaviour is unacceptable in a civilised society. Just like race, a person's sexual orientation is an intrinsic characteristic for which no citizen should ever feel under threat of verbal or physical violence."
Critics of the new law had been waving the flag of free speech, fearing comedians and the moral teachings of certain religious groups would be criminalized – but an amendment tabled by Tory peer Lord Waddington has appeased these concerns.
The new legislation allows the “discussion or criticism” of sexual practices.
