The candid opinions of the pioneering judge who investigated the ban on LGBT individuals serving in the UK armed forces were disclosed recently, almost a year after his passing. Actor and peer Michael Cashman presented a speech written by Lord Etherton prior to his demise in May of the previous year at the Imperial War Museum.
Within the speech, Lord Etherton highlighted the existence of “institutional homophobia” and the “disturbing revelations” he uncovered during his inquiry into the ban, which was enforced until the year 2000. He detailed a range of issues including a prevalent culture of homophobia, bullying, blackmail, and sexual assaults, along with unjust investigations into sexual orientation, inappropriate medical exams like conversion therapy, abrupt discharges, and detrimental impacts on mental health, well-being, housing, employment, personal relationships, and financial stability.
He further stated, “The ingrained homophobia within the policies of the Ministry of Defence and senior ranks of the Armed Forces essentially sanctioned relentless and often abusive, harsh, and coercive investigations by the Special Investigations Branch.”
The speech coincided with ongoing concerns about the delayed compensation payments to those affected by the ban, with 1,312 individuals having applied for financial restitution. Among these applications, 986 were for discharge payments, but only 667 had been processed by December 15th. Additionally, less than one-third of the 1,053 applications for impact payments had been resolved.
Lord Cashman, known for his role in Eastenders where he featured in the first on-screen same-sex kiss in a soap opera in 1989, delivered Lord Etherton’s speech at an event hosted by actor Russell Tovey, with Lord Etherton’s spouse, Andrew, in attendance.
Peter Gibson, CEO of Fighting With Pride, emphasized the urgent need for the Ministry of Defence to fulfill its promise of compensation swiftly, acknowledging the long-standing suffering endured by numerous individuals under the harsh policies enforced by the British government. He encouraged affected veterans to seek legal support if their claims were rejected, stressing the importance of upholding Lord Etherton’s legacy and ensuring justice for all impacted individuals.
The responsibility for carrying out this legacy lies with the Ministry of Defence, as they are tasked with fulfilling the necessary actions as outlined by Lord Etherton.