shot-button
Subscription Subscription
Home > News > World News > Article > Thousands convicted under past anti gay laws to be pardoned in UK

Thousands convicted under past anti-gay laws to be pardoned in UK

Updated on: 02 February,2017 08:26 AM IST  | 
Agencies |

Thousands of men convicted under now-abolished anti-homosexuality laws in Britain have been pardoned posthumously under a new law enacted, and many more still alive can now apply to have their criminal convictions wiped out

Thousands convicted under past anti-gay laws to be pardoned in UK

WWII hero Alan Turing was among several illustrious personalities to be convicted for homosexuality

WWII hero Alan Turing was among several illustrious personalities to be convicted for homosexuality
WWII hero Alan Turing was among several illustrious personalities to be convicted for homosexuality


London: Thousands of men convicted under now-abolished anti-homosexuality laws in Britain have been pardoned posthumously under a new law enacted, and many more still alive can now apply to have their criminal convictions wiped out.


Announcing the new law, the ministry of justice said the pardons apply automatically to deceased men who were convicted for consensual same-sex relations before homosexuality was decriminalised several decades ago. Men living with convictions can apply to the government to have their names cleared.


"This is a truly momentous day. We can never undo the hurt caused, but we have apologised and taken action to right these wrongs," Justice Minister Sam Gyimah said.

Calls for a general pardon have noted the 1954 suicide of WWII codebreaking hero Alan Turing after his conviction for "gross indecency." After he received a posthumous royal pardon in 2013, pressure for pardons intensified. After WWII, Turing was prosecuted for having sex with a man.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK