§ Mrs. CurrieTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to repeal section 2 of the Sexual Offences Act 1967 to decriminalise homosexual acts in the Merchant Navy.
§ Mr. NorrisYes, having consulted widely on this matter and considered all the factors involved, I have decided that there is no continued justification for the retention of offences specific to the Merchant Navy. Section 2 of the Sexual Offences Act 1967 will therefore be repealed when a suitable legislative opportunity occurs.