Downing Street swiftly discredited the claims made by Conservative MP Danny Kruger during his speech at the National Conservatism conference. Kruger asserted that only heterosexual families contribute to a “safe and functioning society.” While the annual gathering of staunch nationalists welcomed various prominent Tory figures, the government distanced itself from the remarks, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Kruger’s speech at the conference lauded the role of so-called “normative” families, emphasizing the significance of parents remaining together for the sake of their children. However, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made it clear that this perspective does not align with the government’s official stance. When queried about Sunak’s agreement with Kruger’s views, the spokesperson unequivocally responded, “No.” Nevertheless, no comment was provided regarding Sunak’s personal sentiments on the matter, leaving room for speculation.
Notably, Kruger’s subtly anti-LGBTQ+ comments were not the only instances of divisive rhetoric heard at the National Conservatism conference. Home Secretary Suella Braverman took a swipe at transgender individuals during her speech, insinuating that opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer could be viewed as “Labour’s first female prime minister” due to his acknowledgment of trans women. Braverman’s remarks, including her assertion that “100 percent of women do not have a penis,” drew criticism for their transphobic undertones.
In addition, other right-wing speakers at the conference echoed anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments. Frank Furedi, a Hungarian-Canadian sociologist, baselessly claimed that Brussels, the administrative capital of the European Union, was continually adding new letters to the LGBTQ+ acronym. Furedi further expressed that nationalist beliefs were marginalized within the realm of identity politics, deeming those identifying as “nationalists” as unacceptable.
As society grapples with ongoing debates surrounding gender, sexuality, and national identity, the government’s swift dismissal of Kruger’s viewpoint serves as a reminder of its commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse society. While such divisive rhetoric persists, the discourse around LGBTQ+ rights remains at the forefront of the fight for equality and acceptance.
