Equality Network pledge backed by Scottish political leaders

THE leaders of all five main political parties in Scotland have signed up to a charity’s pledge to deliver equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) people.

The Equality Network’s election pledge covers action on issues reserved to Westminster, including amending equality law to cover all trans people, recognising non-binary people on UK Government records including passports and consulting with intersex people to introduce effective equality protection.

Further issues covered include ending discrimination in pension payments for same-sex couples, providing asylum for LGBTI people facing persecution and ensuring Brexit does not reduce equality and human rights protections.

The Scottish leaders of the Conservatives, Greens, Labour, Liberal Democrats and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon have all signed up to the pledge.

The First Minister said: “The SNP is committed to securing full equality for LGBTI people and we have a proud record – under the SNP, Scotland has become one of the best countries in the world for LGBTI equality and human rights.

“At Westminster, SNP MPs have pressed the UK Government to stop dragging its heels and make world-leading reforms – from transgender equality, to equal pension rights for same-sex couples, to the Turing Law.”

Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said she is “proud” to support the cause, adding: “Scotland has made great progress in advancing the rights of all groups, but there’s still more we can do to tackle intolerance and improve the lives of LGBTI people.”

Labour leader Kezia Dugdale also said there is a “long way to go” for LGBTI equality and her party was committed to achieving it.

Green co-convener Patrick Harvie said: “We are happy to support the five-point pledge to ensure Westminster equality law fully protects all LGBTI people in Scotland and that we offer a safe haven to asylum seekers fleeing persecution because they are LGBTI.”

Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said his party would “champion tolerance and openness, and take an active role in tackling discrimination”.

Equality Network director Tim Hopkins welcomed the endorsement from party leaders.

He said: “There is a broad consensus in Scottish politics now that LGBTI people should be welcomed as full and equal citizens here.”