LibDem MP Lynne Featherstone on LGBT asylum, and who's left behind

Image by Euro Realist Newsletter via Flickr

Speaking to LGF News, Lynne Featherstone, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Youth and Equality issues, answered questions from readers on LGBT issues. These included

Q: With Lithuania and Uganda both forging ahead with homophobic legislation, what would a Liberal Democrat government do to defend the rights of gay people in countries where they face active persecution?

Featherstone: In any form of negotiation with these countries, (and others!) at every level from diplomat to minister, this needs to be flagged as serious issue that we will not let drop.

Q: What would a Liberal Democrat government do to ensure safety for refugees and asylum seekers fleeing persecution from violently homophobic and transphobic countries?

Featherstone: Persecution based solely on a person's sexuality is clearly grounds for a person to seek asylum.  Liberal Democrats have fought hard when the Government has failed to uphold this human right. But we need to go further, and use our significant influence abroad to end this persecution because for every person that manages to flee - there [are] undoubtedly many more living in fear unable to escape.