The UK government has decided not to establish a public inquiry into the effects of Section 28 a controversial law introduced during Margaret Thatcher‘s tenure. This decision comes despite a petition backed by Russell ToveyHannah Drakeford and Boy George which garnered 26,236 signatures.
The Section 28 Justice Coalition a group advocating for recognition of the law’s lasting impact, expressed disappointment with the government’s response. The coalition had hoped that an inquiry would shed light on the devastating impact of Section 28 on LGBTQ+ individuals and educators from 1988 until 2003.
The Government’s Stance on Section 28
The government acknowledged the chilling effect of Section 28 but argued that a public inquiry is not the appropriate approach. In its response, issued on 18 August 2026 the government stated that the origins and motivations behind the law are already on the public record. It emphasized that the repeal of Section 28 and subsequent advances in LGBTQ+ equality demonstrate that its legacy has been recognized.
The government’s response highlighted that public inquiries are typically used to establish facts about past events and to learn from them to prevent similar occurrences. However, the coalition believes that an inquiry would provide a platform for survivors to share their experiences and recommend safeguards against future LGBTQ+ censorship.
The Coalition’s Persistence
The Section 28 Justice Coalition co-founded by Stevie Jones and Sarah Elizabeth Drummond remains committed to its cause. The coalition has been collecting personal testimonies through its Dear Section 28 project and supporting the development of a documentary titled Don’t Say Gay which explores the history and legacy of the law.
The coalition’s petition, which remains open until mid calls for a comprehensive review of the law’s impact on LGBTQ+ people, educators, and local authority workers. The coalition argues that there has never been a formal acknowledgment of the long-term effects of Section 28, even after its repeal.
The Legacy of Section 28
Introduced in 1988 Section 28 prohibited local authorities and schools from promoting homosexuality. This legislation created a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ youth and educators, forcing many to hide their identities or seek support outside of school. The law remained in effect in England and Wales until 2003 and in Scotland until 2000.
The coalition’s campaign has garnered support from prominent figures such as Lord Michael Cashman a co-founder of Stonewall and Sue Sanders a co-founder of LGBTQ+ History Month. They argue that the legacy of Section 28 requires formal examination and that the policy has shaped attitudes beyond the UK, influencing similar measures internationally.
The coalition remains open to alternative approaches if they can deliver an official apology, hear survivor testimonies, and establish safeguards against future discrimination. Despite the government’s decision, the coalition vows to continue lobbying politicians and gathering evidence to ensure that the experiences of those affected by Section 28 are not forgotten.
