Murdo Fraser, a Scottish Conservative leadership candidate, has once again reaffirmed his opposition to same-sex marriage, a stance that has been consistent throughout his political career. In a recent interview with the Daily Record, Fraser emphasized his unwavering position, citing his Christian beliefs as the foundation of his views on marriage.
At the launch of his leadership campaign in Perth, Fraser stated, “I’m a Christian. I take a particular view on what marriage should be. That’s how I voted, and I haven’t changed my mind on that.” This declaration comes a decade after he voted against the legislation that allowed same-sex couples to marry in Scotland, a move that was seen by many as a step backward in the fight for LGBTQ rights.
The reaction to Fraser’s comments was swift and critical. Paul O’Kane, a Labour MSP who is in a same-sex marriage, responded by highlighting the profound impact that marriage equality has had on countless lives. “The sad part is that someone could look at ten years of equal marriage and be unable to see the immense joy that those rights have brought for people who love one another, our families and friends. Well, to borrow a phrase from across the pond: ‘we’re not going back’,” O’Kane remarked.
Fraser’s candidacy in the Scottish Conservative leadership race places him alongside two other MSPs, Meghan Gallacher and Russell Findlay, who have their own histories with LGBTQ+ issues. Gallacher has previously criticized the work of LGBT Youth Scotland, while Findlay has publicly condemned homophobic violence, notably speaking out on behalf of a 14-year-old boy who was assaulted for being gay.
Fraser’s long-standing opposition to LGBTQ+ rights is not limited to same-sex marriage. In 2012, he questioned the relevance of Police Scotland’s diversity survey, which included questions about sexual orientation and gender identity. Fraser argued that such questions were unnecessary for understanding public perceptions of crime, revealing a broader discomfort with LGBTQ+ issues.
Moreover, Fraser has consistently pushed for amendments to legislation that would protect those who oppose same-sex marriage on religious grounds. His efforts included calls for a conscience clause within the Equality Act 2010, which would allow individuals to express support for traditional definitions of marriage without fear of legal repercussions.
Fraser’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights has also extended to the debate over gender recognition. He was a vocal opponent of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill, which sought to simplify the process for trans individuals to legally change their gender. The bill, which aimed to lower the age for legal gender change to 16 and 17, was ultimately blocked by the UK government, a decision that Fraser supported.
The potential impact of Fraser’s leadership on LGBTQ+ rights in Scotland is a matter of deep concern for the community. His history of opposing progressive legislation suggests that, under his leadership, the Scottish Conservatives may take a more conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues, potentially reversing gains made in recent years.
As Fraser continues his campaign, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies will be watching closely, advocating for the protection and advancement of equal rights in the face of ongoing opposition.
