Burstow calls for zero tolerance towards homophobic bullying

10.05.37am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 8th Jun 2006

MP for Sutton and Cheam Paul Burstow has called for an end to homophobic bullying in schools. Commenting at the launch of the Liberal Democrats online petition against homophobic bullying, Paul Burstow MP said:

"We have launched a petition calling for all schools in Sutton and Cheam to develop measures to tackle homophobic bullying. Taunts and name calling should be challenged immediately so that it's clear such behaviour won't be tolerated.

"I have a real concern about all aspects of bullying. I am turning the spotlight on this particular problem because homophobic bullying is harder to monitor and tackle at the moment. It is not about being "politically correct" but ensuring that all pupils know bullying will not be tolerated - and there are no exceptions.

"Homophobic bullying affects not only pupils who grow up to be gay, but those with gay family members and pupils labelled "gay" by their peers.

"If a pupil is bullied because of race, looks or a disability they are likely to at least have supportive parents. This is often not the case for young gay people and it is difficult for them to know which teacher they can confide in.

"Homophobic bullying is a painful issue that too many pupils, teachers and parents here in Sutton and Cheam have to deal with every day. I want their voices to be heard in the wider debate on how to stamp out all types of bullying in our schools.

"Putting a duty on schools will ensure there is someone for the young person to turn to and will send out a message that homophobic abuse should be treated with the same zero tolerance as racist abuse. Our schools here in Sutton and Cheam should be safe places of learning for all children irrespective of their sexuality."