Jack Straw has decided to introduce legislation which will prohibit the incitement of homophobic hatred. It is well-intentioned, but will this legislation work? Is it necessary? Might it not lead to infringements of free speech? Are there more effective ways to challenge homophobia and other hateful incitements?

These and other important issues are discussed in a thoughtful article by Peter Tatchell: http://commentisfree.guardian.co.uk/peter_tatchell/2007/10/hate_speech_v... [1]