Monday MPs are debating the amendments to the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill to potentially create something similar for the LGBT community when it comes to homophobic public outbursts.

It should mean we will be afforded similar protection under law as those preventing racial outbursts as incitement to racial violence.

Religious groups are bombarding Government with objections telling them that this would be an infringement of their 'right to free speech'.

This of course is nonsense.

They will continue to have the freedom to practice their religion, however if someone holding a public office or indeed anyone who speaks in 'public' should not be allowed to incite hatred just because of another's sexuality.

As a community, we are simply asking the Government to tackle words and behaviours which 'stir up hate against gay people' in our society similar to those that prevent such action within other minority groups.

Gino Meriano, Gay Rights Campaigner says:

"It is sad that some religious groups seem so intent on blocking true equality and inclusion in a modern society. Government have stated their commitment to simplifying and aligning equal protections for the 7 strands of diversity. Why can it be deemed unacceptable and illegal to racially offend where as to offend simply based on someone's sexuality should be viewed as OK? This simply reinforces the fact that minority groups are and will be on the attack for many years to come."

Show your support and ask your MP to support our rights, call 020 7219 3000 or to find your local MP visit www.upmystreet.com/commons/l