NEWS: Rainbow flag flies over police headquarters

[Tragic Rabbit]

13th February 2008 17:15

PinkNews.co.uk staff writer

A police force named as the best employer for gay, lesbian and bisexual people in Scotland is celebrating LGBT History Month by flying the rainbow flag.

The public display of support at Lothian and Borders Police headquarters in Edinburgh has been welcomed by gay rights organisation Stonewall, who compile the list of top employers.

However, not everyone was pleased.

The Edinburgh Evening News spoke to a former employee: "There are members of staff who feel this was insensitive for religious reasons. Some have deep personal convictions and this flies against that."

Chief Inspector David Lyle, who was Scotland's first openly gay officer, told the paper:

"The contribution of LGBT people is often forgotten or ignored. It's great the police is able to recognise those efforts.

"It sends out the message of support to staff members and the wider public that the force is committed to diversity and equality.

"I'm sad if some people are unhappy about the flag for religious reasons, but I know many religious people who do not feel it goes against their faith and they are very supportive."

LGBT History Month is being celebrated with hundreds of events across the country throughout February.

http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-6842.html