by Ben Robinson, BBC
Pride displays and events have been banned at Norfolk’s libraries in a move described by an MP as “shameful, divisive and deeply damaging”.
The new Reform administration at County Hall has informed staff across all 47 libraries not to exhibit any material or stage presentations or events which promote political messaging.
It said the directive did not single out Pride specifically and it was brought in to create a “genuinely neutral safe space” in libraries.
“Erasing LGBT+ visibility doesn’t make people equal, it makes people invisible,” said South Norfolk Labour MP Ben Goldsborough, who has called on the council leader to reverse the decision.
Scott Hussey, a senior Reform councillor, said the new rules were introduced after families raised concerns about activities in Norfolk libraries.
“Public buildings funded by Norfolk taxpayers must not be used to advance any political agenda or promote the interests of any campaign group, however well-intentioned,” he told the Local Democracy reporting service.
“We have heard from residents who feel that hasn’t always been the case, particularly with regard to materials aimed at children.
“As such, we welcome the steps Norfolk County Council has taken to ensure its library and museum spaces are inclusive and politically neutral for all visitors.”