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Written question asked by Lord Scriven (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 7 July 2026. It was answered by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 July 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the potential for the application deadline for the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme to exclude eligible claimants, and whether they intend to extend it to ensure that those facing administrative barriers or difficulties in retrieving historical service records are not denied access to compensation.

Answer

The LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme will close at 23:59 on 12 December 2026, following a 24‑month application window, and there are no plans to extend the deadline. The scheme has been designed to minimise barriers to application. Applicants are not required to provide Service records and may apply on the basis of their testimony alone, ensuring that difficulties in accessing historical documentation do not prevent individuals from applying. All applications submitted before the closing date will continue to be processed in line with the scheme rules.

The Government is taking a proactive approach to ensure that all those affected by the historic ban are made aware of the scheme, including those who may not be engaged with established veterans’ networks or digital channels. Defence is working with a wide range of partners, including the Royal British Legion, Fighting with Pride, local authorities, the NHS, community groups, Veterans’ Commissioners, and other charities, supported by external communications specialists. A stakeholder communications pack has also been issued to partners to help extend the reach of messaging, and information is available on GOV.UK, alongside dedicated support for applicants.

A total of 1,839 individual payment cases have been progressed to a decision. Of the cases that have been appealed, 58 appeal cases have met the grounds for appeal, as defined in the scheme rules, and have therefore been reviewed by the Independent Appeal Board. As of 22 June 2026, including outcomes reached by the Appeals Board, 168 cases have not met the eligibility criteria set out in the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme rules.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1232
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
LGBT financial recognition scheme
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk