Overview

• Mr Justice Linden found that uniformed officers marching under Pride flags at the 2024 Newcastle Pride parade violated their professional oath to act impartially
• The judgment applies only to the 2024 event and leaves the decision on uniformed participation in the 2025 parade to Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine
• Linzi Smith, a gender-critical lesbian campaigner, brought the judicial review, arguing visible police support for transgender causes undermines neutrality
• Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine had maintained that participating under the Equality Act 2010 duty was necessary to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBT+ community
• National Police Chiefs’ Council chair Gavin Stephens confirmed collaboration with the College of Policing to draft new guidance on maintaining neutrality at community events