After years of legal proceedings, Jason Jones is welcoming the Privy Council’s decision in his challenge to provisions of the Sexual Offences Act which criminalise buggery and acts of serious indecency.
The Board unanimously ruled that the legislation must be interpreted consistently with the Constitution, so that private, consensual sexual relations between adults of the same sex are not criminalised.
Mr Jones says the outcome is a victory not only for him but for the wider LGBT+ community.
He also expressed gratitude to his legal team, led by former Attorney General Anand Ramlogan SC, and acknowledged the support of members of the LGBT+ community throughout the lengthy legal battle.
Mr Jones says the ruling reinforces the constitutional protection of personal relationships and the right to live without fear of criminal punishment because of one’s sexual orientation.
While describing the decision as a major milestone, he acknowledges that challenges surrounding discrimination and social acceptance remain.
He says the focus must now turn to addressing those issues and advancing equality for all.