Call for British Government to Pardon Turing

The campaign for a pardon for Alan Turing, a mathematician and computer scientist, gained momentum through various efforts led by John Leech, the MP for Manchester Withington. Turing is widely recognized for his pivotal role in breaking the Enigma code during World War II, which significantly contributed to the Allied victory. Despite his contributions, Turing was convicted of 'gross indecency' due to his homosexuality, which was criminalized at the time. Leech argued in Parliament that Turing's wartime efforts made him a national hero and that maintaining the conviction was an embarrassment to the nation. He submitted several bills to Parliament advocating for Turing's pardon, emphasizing the need to rectify this historical injustice. In December 2011, an e-petition was launched by William Jones, with the support of Leech, calling for the British government to pardon Turing. This petition garnered over 37,000 signatures, reflecting public support for the cause. However, the request faced opposition from Justice Minister Lord McNally, who discouraged the initiative. The campaign highlighted the ongoing societal issues surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and the historical treatment of individuals based on their sexual orientation. Turing's legacy continues to influence discussions on justice and equality, making the call for his pardon a significant part of the broader narrative on human rights in the UK.