THIS week marked the 25th anniversary of the landmark decision to lift the ban on LGBT+ people serving in the armed forces.

MP Lloyd Hatton (South Dorset/Labour) hosted a parliamentary reception on Tuesday (February 11) alongside Fighting With Pride and the Royal British Legion, where he welcomed LGBT+ veterans from south Dorset and the Veterans Hub, a Weymouth based community group.

Speaking after the event, Mr Hatton said: “It was important that we held an event in the Houses of Parliament to honour LGBT+ veterans and to make sure that their years of dedicated campaigning are remembered and celebrated.”

He added: “It is fantastic to be able to sponsor this event in Westminster.

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“It meant that we could shine a spotlight on the bravery and determination of LGBT+ veterans in South Dorset and across the country.”

The event served to reinforce the Labour Government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations of Lord Etherton’s Independent Review, published in 2023, looking at the treatment of LGBT+ veterans under the ban.

This week marked 25 years since the decision to lift the ban on LGBT+ people serving in the armed forces Picture: Lloyd Hatton

In December last year, the Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, responded to the Independent Review by announcing plans to deliver financial redress for LGBT+ veterans, fully acknowledging the appalling mistreatment many experienced.

Ministers have also announced plans to restore the ranks and amend the discharge reasons for those unfairly dismissed or discharged on the grounds of their sexuality.

On the redress scheme, Mr Hatton said: “Nothing can ever fully address the pain and injustice caused by the ban.

“However, the government’s hope is that the redress scheme will help many veterans begin to heal and rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

“This government will always stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Britain’s veterans.”