Supreme Court ruling secures freedom from persecution for gay asylum seekers - Hughes

3.48.33pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 7th Jul 2010

Commenting on today's Supreme Court ruling that it is not acceptable to refuse asylum to an individual on the basis that they can hide their sexuality to avoid persecution, Liberal Democrat Deputy, Leader Simon Hughes, said:

"I am delighted this ruling recognises the rights of gay asylum seekers, ensuring their freedom from persecution around the world.

"This plight is one that my Liberal Democrat colleagues and I have campaigned on for years. It is an issue that the Coalition Government is committed to addressing as we seek to restore Britain's reputation around the world as a leader in the protection of human rights. I believe that today's ruling will go some way to restoring that reputation.

"Other countries around the world must now follow the UK's lead and recognise freedom of expression and freedom of sexuality for all people."

ENDS

Notes to editors

Simon Hughes has long campaigned for the rights of gay asylum seekers, including his own constituents. http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/commentators/simon-hughes-no-gay-

He tabled questions to Prime Minister and the Home Office on this issue during the last parliament.