International LGB&T rights organisation launched at Speaker’s House
15 September 2011 (updated on 16 September 2011)
Speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow hosted the launch event of Kaleidoscope, an independent not-for-profit organisation working internationally to promote diversity and respect for all regardless of sexual orientation
Kaleidoscope, launched with cross-party support, promotes the human rights of gay, lesbian and bisexual people across the world.
Speaker Bercow, Honorary President of Kaleidoscope, said:
"I am delighted to be able to host this reception for a cross party initiative which aims to encourage equality across the globe. Real progress has been made on such issues here at home and in other parts of the world people should be able to enjoy the same equal rights. It is not a matter of party politics it is a matter of decency. It is ethically wrong that people should still be tortured and discriminated against because of their sexuality."
Prime Minister David Cameron said,
"Our country has made real progress on LGB&T equality and, without forgetting how far we’ve still got to go domestically, it is right that we should now increasingly turn our attention towards bringing about change abroad."
Nick Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister, said,
"I have no doubt that Kaleidoscope's innovative and unique approach will prove hugely important in the fight for LGB&T rights, both here and across the world."
Ed Miliband, Leader of the Opposition, said,
"I am proud to offer my support to Kaleidoscope as it seeks to protect LGBT people from prejudice and persecution across the world".