Grimond Supports Homosexuality Bill (Press, 8 December 1965)

On 6 December 1965, it was reported that Mr Jo Grimond, leader of the Liberal Party, would sponsor a private member’s bill in the House of Commons aimed at changing laws regarding homosexuality. This initiative follows the recommendations set out in the Wolfenden report, which suggested that homosexual behaviour between consenting adults should no longer be criminalised. The bill, introduced by Mr William Berkeley, is scheduled for its second reading on 11 February 1966. Mr Grimond is supporting this bill in his personal capacity rather than as an official representative of his party. His endorsement adds to a list of notable signatories, which includes three former government ministers and three members aligned with Mr Edward Heath’s front-bench team on the Opposition side. Prior to this, a similar proposal had been presented by Mr Leo Abse in May 1965 but was defeated by a narrow margin of 19 votes. Abse's initiative had garnered 178 votes against 159 in its bid for approval. Another bill concerning homosexuality, introduced by Lord Arran, had passed through the House of Lords but was rendered inactive when the new session began, as it had not been approved by both Houses of Parliament. Lord Arran is expected to await the results of the upcoming Commons debate on Grimond’s bill before proceeding with another attempt to amend the law.

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