Charity Commission responds to Mermaids vs LGB Alliance tribunal outcome
The Charity Commission has issued a response following judgment on the Mermaids v Charity Commission and LGB Alliance tribunal [06.07.2023].
A Charity Commission spokesperson said:
“We welcome this judgment. As the judges confirm, it is not the Charity Commission’s role to regulate public debate on sensitive issues on which there are deeply held, sincere beliefs on all sides. Our role is to apply the law, and we consider that we did so in registering LGB Alliance as a charity.
“All charities, ultimately, must deliver on their purposes for the public benefit. We understand both charities hold opposing views, but when engaging in public debate and campaigning, they should do so with respect and tolerance. Demonising and undermining those who think differently is not acceptable behaviour from any charity on our register.”
Additional information
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The judges made no finding on the question of whether LGB Alliance is a charity. It remains our position that we applied the law carefully and properly in registering LGB Alliance as a charity in 2021. The Charity Commission’s 2021 decision to register LGB Alliance is available on gov.uk.
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The full tribunal judgment is available on the tribunal website.
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For media enquiries, please contact our press office at pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk or call us on 07785 748787.