Controversial UK Gay Hate Crime Law Dealt Blow

Filed Under Hate Crimes, Homophobia, Legal | April 23rd, 2008 

The House of Lords has rejected a Gay Hate Crimes Bill from Labour that’s been causing controversy in Britain as it was viewed as many believe that it would stifle free speech.

The headlines:
Labour’s new gay hate laws dealt devastating blow by shock Lords defeat

Plans to ban gay jokes rejected by the Lords

You may recall that back in November, Rowan Atkinson was concerned about the future of gay jokes had the bill pass.

The broad based bill has now been amended so that offence will apply only to those who incite violence or harassment against gay men and lesbians.

What’s up next for this story? Labour minister, Jack Straw must now decide whether to launch a battle to push the law through or accept the amended version.