Stonewall Cymru holds hustings for Welsh Assembly elections

Voters in Wales will have the chance to quiz the four main parties on their views on gay rights.

An election hustings event is being held by Stonewall Cymru tomorrow evening at Cardiff University, ahead of the May 5th elections.

The event will be chaired by Vaughan Roderick, BBC Wales Welsh affairs editor, and will include representatives from Welsh Labour, Plaid Cymru, the Liberal Democrats and the Welsh Conservatives.

Mr Roderick said: “In the 40 years since Leo Abse and Roy Jenkins pioneered gay emancipation huge strides have been taken towards LGB equality culminating in the 2010 Equality Act.

“Serious issues still confront the LGB community though including homophobic bullying in schools, HIV/AIDS and the needs of the first ‘out’ generation who are approaching old age. These hustings will allow members of the LGB community to test whether Welsh politicians are prepared to back up fine word with actions.”

Andrew White, director of Stonewall Cymru said: “We are delighted that all four main political parties are taking part in this debate. It is an important part of our democracy to be able to hold candidates to account.”

The hustings are open to all. Questions can be submitted in Welsh or in English in advance or on the evening. To book a place or submit questions please contact: election@stonewallcymru.org.uk.