London, UK - Following a recent cabinet reshuffle, Shabana Mahmood has been appointed as the new Home Secretary, a move that has prompted scrutiny of her past and present views on LGBTQ+ rights. PinkNews has compiled an overview of her public statements and actions, revealing a nuanced and at times controversial record. In 2019, while serving as a Member of Parliament, Mahmood faced criticism for raising concerns in Parliament regarding the teaching of LGBTQ+-inclusive lessons in primary schools. She stated at the time that she was "reflecting her constituents' worries over 'age appropriateness'." This position was met with backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates. Mahmood later clarified her stance, asserting, "Nowhere have I said LGBT relationships should not be taught because that's not my position. Nowhere have I backed the terrible homophobic banners and hostile protests at Parkfield school - because they are wrong, defeatist and feed the very prejudices I want to help eradicate." She emphasized that her concern was solely about the method of introducing these conversations to young children, particularly those from religious backgrounds. Her voting record includes support for same-sex marriage in 2013, indicating a progressive stance on certain LGBTQ+ issues. However, more recent comments on gender identity have drawn new attention. In a 2024 interview with The Telegraph, during her tenure as Shadow Justice Secretary, Mahmood voiced support for gender-critical views on sex and gender. She stated that people are "perfectly entitled" to express such views and should not lose their jobs for holding "perfectly legal" beliefs, including "that biological sex is real and immutable" - a position she also agrees with. Mahmood has previously described the debate surrounding trans rights and J.K. Rowling as "toxic," and has stressed the importance of legal protections for all. "Everyone should be able to take refuge in the laws of our land; they're there to protect everybody," she stated. While her support for same-sex marriage demonstrates a commitment to certain LGBTQ+ protections, her recent remarks on sex and gender identity suggest she may continue to be a figure of debate within the Labour party and the broader LGBTQ+ community.
After Angela Rayner’s shock resignation, Labour’s latest Cabinet reshuffle placed Shabana Mahmood in the role of home secretary, leaving many eager t…
