"Stop Homophobic Bullying" campaign comes to Manchester Pride

9.20.36pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 26th Aug 2006

Our petition got an enthusiastic welcome at Manchester Pride

The Liberal Democrats' "Stop Homophobic Bullying" campaign in the North West was launched by Manchester Withington MP John Leech today at Manchester Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride.

John Leech MP said, "Homophobic bullying affects many pupils, teachers and school staff whether they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or straight and can cause lasting harm. It is time that the Government had a clear strategy to stamp out homophobia in schools. I am proud today to be launching the 'Stop Homophobic Bullying' Petition in the North West at Manchester LGBT Pride - a petition which outlines clear measures that the Government can promote to end this scourge in our playgrounds and classrooms. I urge you to sign our Petition and support the campaign to stamp out homophobia in schools!"

DELGA Executive member Jen Yockney said, "Several hundred petition signatures have already been collected and we've been delighted at the hugely supportive reception from Manchester's gay community."

"For all David Cameron's talk about dragging the Conservatives into the 21st century they are notable by their absence from Manchester Pride, which is always one of the biggest dates in the LGBT calendar. Labour don't seem to have anything fresh to say to the LGBT communities either."