Petition · past parliament
Personally apologise to HM Forces personnel dismissed due to their sexuality.
Closed
48 signatures
What the petition asks
Thousands of serving gay military personnel suffered intrusive investigations into their sexuality, losing homes, careers and friends. Many faced homelessness, rejection and no suitable alternative career. Many experience unemployment and poor mental health, even now.
We demand a personal apology.
We demand a personal apology.
Not one individual subjected to investigation and dismissal from HM Forces, has ever received an apology.
In 2007, the MOD provided a watery statement of recognition, but many didn't know about it and it certainly wasn't personal.
There is a moral obligation to apologise for this treatment. The effects of these investigations are still very real for these people.
Given the law in this area was only repealed in the 2016 revision of the Armed Forces Bill, the time is right to apologise.
In 2007, the MOD provided a watery statement of recognition, but many didn't know about it and it certainly wasn't personal.
There is a moral obligation to apologise for this treatment. The effects of these investigations are still very real for these people.
Given the law in this area was only repealed in the 2016 revision of the Armed Forces Bill, the time is right to apologise.
Timeline
| 30 Aug 2016 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 28 Feb 2017 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
48
Status
Closed
Opened
30 Aug 2016
Closed
28 Feb 2017
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.