Tory MP likens trans acceptance to saying ‘two plus two equals five’
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In a recent Westminster Hall debate on LGBTQ+ content in relationship education, Conservative MP Nick Fletcher made controversial remarks comparing the acceptance of trans people by schools and businesses to telling children that “two plus two equals five”. Fletcher, who represents Don Valley, has a history of making divisive comments about the trans community.
During the debate, MPs discussed two opposing petitions regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion in sex and relationships education. The first petition, which called for LGBTQ+ content to be removed from the syllabus, garnered nearly 250,000 signatures. In contrast, the second petition urged the government not to remove LGBTQ+ content and received 104,000 signatures.
Fletcher’s comments during the debate centered on the teaching of trans identities to children. He drew parallels between accepting trans identities and believing that “two plus two equals five”. Fletcher expressed concern that children may be influenced by teachers and social media to believe in concepts that he deemed as inaccurate.
He went on to describe a scenario where individuals start wearing lanyards and putting up posters stating that “two plus two equals five” in an effort to be inclusive and kind. Fletcher also raised concerns about the portrayal of such ideas in mainstream media, including television shows.
The MP argued that teaching gender identity in schools could lead to confusion among young children and questioned the need for exposing them to material that suggests they can choose their gender based on feelings. Fletcher emphasized his belief that children should not be sexualized in schools, especially at a primary school level.
In response to a question from Labour MP Stephen Doughty about LGBTQ+ inclusion in sex education, Fletcher clarified that he was specifically addressing the topic of trans identities in the debate. However, he expressed his broader belief that the sexualization of children in schools, including all LGBTQ+ content, should be stopped, particularly in primary schools.
Fletcher’s remarks sparked criticism from some MPs, with Doughty questioning whether the MP intended to remove all LGBTQ+ content from sex education or just focus on trans identities. Fletcher reiterated his focus on the “T” in LGBTQ+ but emphasized his stance against any form of sexualization of children in schools.
The debate highlighted the ongoing discussions and divisions surrounding LGBTQ+ inclusion in education. While some argue for the importance of teaching diversity and acceptance, others, like Fletcher, raise concerns about the impact of such teachings on young children.
Overall, the debate underscored the complexities and differing perspectives on LGBTQ+ education in schools, with MPs like Fletcher advocating for a more conservative approach to curriculum content. As discussions on this topic continue, it remains to be seen how policymakers will address these issues moving forward.
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