Tim Farron responds on Vicky Thompson death in custody on Trans Day of Remembrance
Originally published by LGBT+ Liberal Democrats
Lib Dem leader Tim Farron MP has called for urgent reform following the death of trans woman Vicky Thompson who was being held in a men's jail. Recently, Farron had also intervened in the case of Tara Hudson, along with Lib Dem peer Lord Marks. Baroness Liz Barker has tabled a question for discussion in the House of Lords, and there will also be an urgent quesion in the Commons at 11am.
Today is also Trans Day of Remembrance, and Farron had released this statement: "Too many transgender lives have been lost to hate and prejudice around the world. Today, on Transgender Day of Remembrance, we reflect on that and remember those killed and focus on what steps we can take, both in the UK and internationally, to halt this tragic and unnecessary loss of life.
"I'm proud that Liberal Democrats have led and continue to lead the way on trans equality, opposing the spousal veto and continuing to campaign to introduce X Gender markers on passports."
Lib Dem Equalities Spokesperson Baroness Hussein-Ece added: "Every year, we reflect upon the trans people who have died violently. We know that trans people are at much greater risk of murder, and that risk is elevated for trans women, trans people of colour, poor trans people, and trans people in developing countries.
"The Liberal Democrats supported legal recognition of trans people years before the Human Rights courts forced the Government to introduce it, and our party policy for a trans and intersex health charter would put the UK at the forefront of trans equality worldwide. The Liberal Democrats call upon the Government not only to bring our charter into law, but also lobby for improved trans rights worldwide in the hope that this violence can be curbed."
She also commented on the death of Vicky Thompson: "Today my thoughts are also with the friends and family of Vicky Thompson. The Liberal Democrats will be pressing the Government to urgently reform the law around the sentencing of transgender prisoners."