Government tables amendment to equalise hate‑crime protections for LGBTQ+ people

The UK Government has tabled an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill that, if passed, will finally bring anti‑LGBTQ+ hate crime in line with hate crimes motivated by race or religion. The proposal, published on 16 February 2026, would classify hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people as aggravated offences - a step hailed by campaigners as a landmark moment for equality.

Under current legislation, anti‑LGBTQ+ hate crime is recognised in law, but offences motivated by race or religion carry higher maximum sentences due to their aggravated status. The proposed amendment would correct this imbalance, ensuring courts treat hostility towards sexual orientation or gender identity with the same seriousness. Aggravated status not only increases sentencing powers but also gives victims more time to pursue justice and requires stronger investigative scrutiny at the earliest stages of a case. 

Stonewall, which has campaigned for this reform for years through its Hold My Hand campaign, welcomed the move as a critical milestone. CEO Simon Blake described it as “a major step in the journey of LGBTQ+ equality,” emphasising that it sends a clear message that “there is no hierarchy of hate” and that LGBTQ+ people “deserve equal access to justice.” He added that the charity will continue working with parliamentarians to ensure the amendment becomes law.

The change follows extensive advocacy, including work with Labour MP Rachel Taylor, who previously introduced a similar amendment during Commons debates. Taylor has consistently stressed the need to treat anti‑LGBTQ+ offences with appropriate seriousness - an issue she has also championed in earlier parliamentary discussions on hate crime legislation. 

Stonewall notes that many LGBTQ+ people continue to face disproportionately high levels of hate crime and are increasingly anxious about their safety. The charity argues that equalising the law will offer vital reassurance and protection at a time when hostility towards LGBTQ+ communities remains a pressing concern.