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RuPaul drag queens are coming to Birmingham and this is how you can see them

Asia O’Hara, Detox, Eureka O’hara, Kameron Michaels, Kim Chi, Monét X Change, Naomi Smalls, Sharon Needles Violet Chachki and Michelle Visage are all coming to Birmingham in 2019 here’s where you can get tickets.

RuPaul’s Drag Race ‘Werq The World Tour’ is returning to Birmingham in 2019 with its biggest UK show ever. The tour which showcases some of the best stars from the hit TV series will play Birmingham Symphony Hall Arena on the 3rd May 2019.

BOOK TICKETS NOW FOR THE WERQ THE WORLD TOUR IN BIRMINGHAM

Produced by Voss Events, Drag Race producers World of Wonder and VH1, the all-new production follows a team of intergalactic queens including Aquaria, Asia O’Hara, Detox, Eureka O’Hara, Kameron Michaels, Kim Chi, Monét X Change, Naomi Smalls, Sharon Needles and Violet Chachki on their mission to the sun to save our solar system from a dark entity intent on harnessing its power.

Mission leader Michelle Visage guides the audience through the universe for a dynamic display of the wonders held by each planet and its regal sovereign.

Tickets go on sale December 19 (pre-sale begins December 17), just in time for the holidays.

“This is the biggest, most elaborate production we have ever created,” says an exuberant Brandon Voss, the show’s producer.

“The music, sets, fashion, choreography and lighting are all a cosmic feast for the senses. Audiences will be in awe as their favourite queens come together on some incredible numbers.”

“Werq the World is the official Drag Race tour for a reason,” continues Visage. “The show has always been a theatrical production of the highest calibre but in 2019, we’re stepping it up into the stratosphere. This show is going to leave fans gagging and I’m not afraid to say that my performance, in particular, will give you life.”

Voss Events is a leading production company that consistently delivers superior entertainment programming. Past events have featured stars such as Lady Gaga and Cher.

The queens will be coming to Belfast, Birmingham, Manchester, London, Bristol, Glasgow and Sunderland.

The WERQ THE WORLD TOUR will travel major cities in Europe, Asia, Australia, North and Latin America in 2019. To book tickets for the Birmingham date click here

20th December 2018
RuPaul drag queens are coming to Sunderland and this is how you can see them

Asia O’Hara, Detox, Eureka O’hara, Kameron Michaels, Kim Chi, Monét X Change, Naomi Smalls, Sharon Needles Violet Chachki and Michelle Visage are all coming to Sunderland in 2019 here’s where you can get tickets.

RuPaul’s Drag Race ‘Werq The World Tour’ is coming to Sunderland in 2019 with its biggest UK show ever. The tour which showcases some of the best stars from the hit TV series will play Sunderland Empire on 5th May 2019.

BOOK TICKETS TO SEE WERQ THE WORLD In Sunderland

Produced by Voss Events, Drag Race producers World of Wonder and VH1, the all-new production follows a team of intergalactic queens including Aquaria, Asia O’Hara, Detox, Eureka O’Hara, Kameron Michaels, Kim Chi, Monét X Change, Naomi Smalls, Sharon Needles and Violet Chachki on their mission to the sun to save our solar system from a dark entity intent on harnessing its power.

Mission leader Michelle Visage guides the audience through the universe for a dynamic display of the wonders held by each planet and its regal sovereign.

Tickets go on sale December 19 (pre-sale begins December 17), just in time for the holidays.

“This is the biggest, most elaborate production we have ever created,” says an exuberant Brandon Voss, the show’s producer.

“The music, sets, fashion, choreography and lighting are all a cosmic feast for the senses. Audiences will be in awe as their favourite queens come together on some incredible numbers.”

“Werq the World is the official Drag Race tour for a reason,” continues Visage. “The show has always been a theatrical production of the highest calibre but in 2019, we’re stepping it up into the stratosphere. This show is going to leave fans gagging and I’m not afraid to say that my performance, in particular, will give you life.”

Voss Events is a leading production company that consistently delivers superior entertainment programming. Past events have featured stars such as Lady Gaga and Cher.

The queens will be coming to Belfast, Birmingham, Manchester, London, Bristol, Glasgow and Sunderland.

The WERQ THE WORLD TOUR will travel major cities in Europe, Asia, Australia, North and Latin America in 2019. To book tickets click here

20th December 2018
There’s going to be a reboot of Queer As Folk and we’re ALL IN

Apparently, there’s going to be a reboot of one the most iconic gay shows in history and the creator Russell T. Davies is on board.

CREDIT: Channel 4

Queer As Folk shocked and pleasured in equal measure in the late 90s and it seems as though TV company Bravo is looking to reboot the show. The creator Russell T. Davies is said to be serving as an exec producer for the show while Canadian screenwriter and director Stephen Dunn will be writing new episodes.

It’s unclear at this time whether the original cast will be involved however Variety is suggesting that the show will focus on new characters and in a different setting.

In the early noughties, there was an American / Canadian version of the show, which saw a staggering 83 episodes produced. It was applauded for tackling a variety of hard-hitting issues facing the LGBT+ community and developed the original characters further.

As Variety notes, “The original Queer as Folk ran for 10 episodes between 1999 and 2000 in the UK. It starred Aidan Gillen, Charlie Hunnam, and Craig Kelly as three gay men living in Manchester. A North American remake was then launched in 2000 on the Canadian cable channel Showcase and the American channel Showtime. That series, set in Pittsburgh, ran for five seasons and starred Gale Harold, Randy Harrison, Hal Sparks, Peter Paige, and Scott Lowell”.

A new live show for 2019

The first cast member for the original UK version of QAF has been announced for the 20th-anniversary celebration of the show’s first airing.

Actor Craig Kelly has been announced as the first Queer as Folk cast member joining the glittering line up for the show’s 20th birthday live music extravaganza.

Kelly, who played loyal, loveable supermarket manager Vince Tyler in the hit series, will take centre stage at the 2019 anniversary event but is staying tight-lipped about exactly what his role entails.

Craig said, “I’m delighted to be part of the Queer as Folk live event, I can’t believe it has been 20 years since Vince strutted down Canal street. I’m looking forward to sharing in the music, magical moments and surprises of what promises to be the ultimate birthday party befitting Vince, Stuart, Nathan and ‘mum’ Hazel, as she was always in on the act!”

19th December 2018
RuPaul drag queens are coming to London and this is how you can see them

Asia O’Hara, Detox, Eureka O’hara, Kameron Michaels, Kim Chi, Monét X Change, Naomi Smalls, Sharon Needles Violet Chachki and Michelle Visage are all coming to London 2019 here’s where you can get tickets.

RuPaul’s Drag Race ‘Werq The World Tour’ is returning to London in 2019 with its biggest UK show ever. The tour which showcases some of the best stars from the hit TV series will play Wembley Arena on May 11. Produced by Voss Events, Drag Race producers World of Wonder and VH1, the all-new production follows a team of intergalactic queens including Aquaria, Asia O’Hara, Detox, Eureka O’hara, Kameron Michaels, Kim Chi, Monét X Change, Naomi Smalls, Sharon Needles and Violet Chachki on their mission to the sun to save our solar system from a dark entity intent on harnessing its power. Mission leader Michelle Visage guides the audience through the universe for a dynamic display of the wonders held by each planet and its regal sovereign.

Tickets go on sale December 19 (pre-sale begins December 17), just in time for the holidays.

“This is the biggest, most elaborate production we have ever created,” says an exuberant Brandon Voss, the show’s producer. “The music, sets, fashion, chore- ography and lighting are all a cosmic feast for the senses. Audiences will be in awe as their favorite queens come together on some incredible numbers.”

“Werq the World is the official Drag Race tour for a reason,” continues Visage. “The show has always been a theatrical production of the highest caliber but in 2019, we’re stepping it up into the stratosphere. This show is going to leave fans gagging and I’m not afraid to say that my performance, in particular, will give you life.”

Voss Events is a leading production company that consistently delivers superior entertainment programming. Past events have featured stars such as Lady Gaga and Cher.

The queens will be coming to Belfast, Birmingham, Manchester, London, Bristol, Glasgow and Sunderland.

The WERQ THE WORLD TOUR will travel major cities in Europe, Asia, Australia, North and Latin America in 2019. To book tickets click here

19th December 2018
Piers Morgan wishes non-binary and Gender Fluid people a Merry Christmas

In stark contrast to his usual rhetoric, the Good Morning Britain presenter wished members of gender non-conforming community a Merry Christmas.

From ITV Studios | © ITV

In the last Good Morning Britain of 2018, Piers Morgan wished a Merry Christmas to non-binary and genderfluid people. Piers who has been critical of the non-binary activists in recent years, was showing off pre-written cue cards in homage to the famous Andrew Lincoln Love Actually scene, where the actor holds up cards explaining his true feelings to co-star Keira Knightley.

On one of the cards that Piers holds up on the ITV morning show, “Love to every gender fluid, non-binary individual out there, Merry Christmas” was written before the punchline, “P.s. BBC Breakfast Sucks”.

BBC Breakfast is a competing show on BBC One.

Seemingly a genuine gesture, Piers holds up a card acknowledging the Gender Fluid and Non-binary community.

Before the butt of the joke is revealed – that he thinks that BBC Breakfast ”

Snow MEN not Snow People

Earlier this year the presenter went on a tirade against Children’s TV presenter, 20-year-old Catie Munning, who was speaking on her CBeebies show, Catie’s Amazing Machines when she said, “snow is amazing. You get to build snowpeople and go sledging.”

Piers, who has consistently railed against gender non-conformity ranted, “You don’t build snowpeople, you see, you build snowmen, we’ve been building snowmen for 10,000 years”.

In 2017 Piers was being criticised for the way he handled an interview with a couple who identify as non-binary. The couple, Fox and Owl were being interviewed on Good Morning Britain on ITV. You may remember Fox from Channel 4’s My Transsexual Summer.

The interview was dubbed “inanely cruel”, disrespectful and “ill-formed”

19th December 2018
There are fears that gay and bi men will be “turned away” from PrEP unless Gov takes action

MPs warn of ‘cliff-edge’ in access to HIV prevention pill PrEP in open letter to Public Health Minister calling for ‘urgent action’

(C) marcbruxel Depositphotos

Today (19 December), MPs and peers from across Parliament have published an open letter calling on public health minister Steve Brine MP to urgently expand access to HIV prevention pill pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in England.

PrEP is currently available in England via a capped 13,000 place trial – but it looks highly likely that all places for gay and bisexual men will be full by early 2019. Despite this group making up more than half (53%) of the 4,363 new HIV diagnoses in 2017.

PrEP is almost 100% effective when taken as prescribed, but some gay and bi men have already been turned away in parts of the country where trial places are full with individuals going on to be diagnosed with HIV.

The 14 MPs and peers include lead signatory Lloyd Russell-Moyle MP, who last month revealed he’s living with HIV in a speech to the Commons, and Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas, whose constituency has one of the highest prevalences of HIV in the country.

Lord Michael Cashman, a Terrence Higgins Trust patron and Stonewall founder, is a signatory. Lord Guy Black, the first openly gay Conservative peer and patron of Terrence Higgins Trust, has also given his support.

In the letter, the MPs and peers state “We are writing to you to seek urgent action regarding the national PrEP Impact Trial” where “demand for the trial has far outstripped availability of places”. It continues, “This cliff-edge scenario is simply not an option.”

Infection with HIV after PrEP refusal already reported

On the need for urgent and decisive action, the letter says, “There has already been one report in the media concerning an adult becoming infected with HIV after being refused access to PrEP via the Impact Trial due to there being no places available at their local clinic. This is unacceptable and we risk failing other gay and bisexual men if the current situation continues.”

The MPs and peers also criticise the number of trial sites yet to open, despite being 14 months into the trial. It says, “This is perpetuating regional health inequalities, in particular among those living in the north of England.”

The move by MPs and peers has been welcomed by leading HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust, which is urgently calling for an expansion to the trial and then for PrEP to be made routinely available on the NHS in England.

Uncapped in Wales, freely available in Scotland

PrEP is already available on the NHS in Scotland and via an uncapped study in Wales. In the letter, MPs and peers said “England must not lag behind” and “PrEP must be given a long-term home as part of existing HIV prevention services”.

The letter is signed by Lloyd Russell-Moyle MP, William Wragg MP, Dame Caroline Spelman MP, Caroline Lucas MP, Peter Kyle MP, Ben Bradshaw MP, Helen Hayes MP, Paul Williams MP, Catherine West MP, Norman Lamb MP, Sarah Champion MP, Lord Michael Cashman, Baroness Liz Barker and Lord Guy Black.

Ian Green, Chief Executive at Terrence Higgins Trust, said, “We welcome cross-party support from MPs and peers on this hugely important issue. It’s unacceptable that people who have been denied access to PrEP in England have gone on to be diagnosed with HIV. PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV and we must fully utilise it in England in order to achieve our ambitious aim of ending new HIV transmissions.”

Lloyd Russell-Moyle, Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown, said, “During my speech in Parliament last month, I called on the Government to take immediate action to avoid this cliff-edge scenario. We know of people who have become infected with HIV because they cannot access this HIV game-changer. I want to see PrEP have a long-term home as part of sexual health services, but in the meantime, NHS England and local authorities must act now and agree to increased places on the trial.”

Caroline Lucas, Green Party MP for Brighton Pavilion, said, “It is dangerous and short-sighted of the Government to withhold PrEP from those most at risk of HIV. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is almost 100 per cent effective at stopping HIV – so Steve Brine should urgently ensure NHS England and local authorities add new places to the trial.”

William Wragg, Conservative MP for Hazel Grove, said, “Increasing places on the PrEP Impact Trial immediately is an important and urgent step the Government can take to prevent HIV transmissions. It will bring immediate benefits to those in need of PrEP and who are at risk today, as well as longer-term benefits to both public health and the public purse, by preventing HIV transmissions and the consequential costs of life-time treatment.”

The letter in full:

Dear Minister

We are writing to you to seek urgent action regarding the national Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Impact Trial. As you will be aware, demand for the trial has far outstripped availability of places. Since the start of the trial in October 2017, nearly 10,000 places have been filled, and despite an increase of 3,000 places for gay and bisexual men, it’s forecast that all those places will be full by early 2019. This cliff-edge scenario is simply not an option.

Last month the UK met the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets which positions us as a leading nation in the response to HIV. Access to PrEP has ultimately played a crucial role in reducing new infections but artificially restricting this access undermines efforts to reach zero new HIV infections.

There has already been one report in the media concerning an adult becoming infected with HIV after being refused access to PrEP via the Impact Trial due to there being no places available at their local clinic. This is unacceptable and we risk failing other gay and bisexual men if the current situation continues.

There are also a number of trial sites that have yet to open, despite being 14 months since the trial commenced. This is perpetuating regional health inequalities, in particular among those living in the north of England.

When taken correctly, PrEP is 100% effective at stopping HIV. Other UK home nations have taken steps to give PrEP a home on their respective NHS; England must not lag behind.

We are therefore calling for an immediate increase in places on the Trial so no one is turned away from accessing PrEP, and a timetable for getting to routine commissioning of PrEP to be agreed between NHS England and local authorities. PrEP must be given a long-term home as part of existing HIV prevention services.

Over the past few weeks, both you and the Secretary of State for Health & Social Care have made references about the need to reach zero new HIV infections here in the UK, which is welcome. However, PrEP remains a key missing piece of our response to HIV and continues to fundamentally undermine our ability to reach zero new HIV infections.

You said in a recent Adjournment Debate on HIV that you were in listening mode regarding PrEP. We therefore urge you to listen to our concerns with urgency and prevent this impending cliff-edge scenario and ensure there is access to PrEP for all those groups who could benefit from it, including women and BAME communities.

Yours sincerely,

Lloyd Russell-Moyle MP (lead signatory)

19th December 2018
Horrifying computer game sees JESUS murder gay people on the streets

A brand new video game sees a variety of right-wing figures, as well as Jesus, slashing, gunning-down and murdering LGBT+ people in the streets.

The computer game, called, Jesus Strikes Back, which is set to be released in 2019 is essentially a shoot-em-up “zombie” computer game in which the objective is to kill gay, trans, non-binary as well as other social justice campaigners people in the streets.

The game is due to be launched in just over a month. Although there is no mention of what platform the game is for or by which method people will be able to obtain the game.

The creators say that the gamer takes on the role of Jesus (or a host of other characters) to travel through various cities leaving a “wave of dead terrorists and radicals in his path” in a game which it says it “fun for all the family”.

The radicals are described as social justice warriors, radical feminists, radical LGBT militants, illegal aliens, terrorists, doctors, socialist politicians and a “radical frenzied NON-BINARY, GENDER FLUID pansexual humanoid berserker”.

It describes the LGBT militants as people who will attack anyone who is not a member of their military group.

Capital cities include, Washington D.C, London, Tokyo, Paris, Berlin, Moscow and Jerusalem.

In the game, it seems as though the player can throw victims off buildings echoing the horrendous means by which ISIS fighters have executed gay men in Iraq and Syria.

Players can also bludgeon victims with an axe or shoot victims in the head.

The Killers

Players have a host of killers they can play as. Jesus is the main character however there is a choice of “Dolf” a character who looks similar to Adolf Hilter, “Tromp” who has the trademark hairstyle of President Donald Trump, Pootin, who has a very similar look to President Putin as well as other figures similar to historical leaders and tyrants. The game’s creators deny that the characters are based on real-life people.

The Creators

The game has been created by four people, who are largely anonymised or known solely by their first names. “John” who financed the game says he’s “Christian first, Republican second and is “no stranger to the old “elbow-grease”.

“Anon” is “A man dismayed at the overwhelming political correctness engulfing the USA and the rest of the world, he now fuels his rage into the development of JSB”

“Anon 2” is “An anonymous European Union resident. The anguish he feels at the EU suppressing his free speech rights drove him to work on JSB”

“Edge” is described as “a retired full-time edgelord before joining the JSB: JD team. He has seen some edgy things in his time and now manages the edge factor of JSB”

Support by PayPal

Supporters are also reminded that they can donate by PayPal in order to help pay for the game to be financed. Supporters can choose to make their donation monthly or one-off payment.

THEGAYUK.com reached out to PayPal for comment who told us there were “looking into it, however won’t be able to comment further due to customer confidentiality”.

H/t GayStarNews

19th December 2018
5 gay places you should definitely go if you’re in Brussels

Brussels is one of the most progressive and liberal cities in Europe, it is a leading gay city with a rich history, thriving nightlife, a French vibe and delicious cuisine.

dimitrisvetsikas1969 / Pixabay

It also has plenty to explore for the man looking for a men-only scene, a scene which you will find is discrete, varied and welcoming.

Macho Sauna: A very friendly and comfortable suite of rooms accommodating a sauna, a steam room, a gym and a hammam, a terrace, a lounge and a club zone. Choose the time to go carefully, mid-week is perfect if you want to concentrate on the facilities but the weekend is when it gets jam-packed and turns into a party zone.

Rue du Marche au Charbon 106, 1000 Brussels,
+32 2 513 56 67
Open 12:00 – 00:00

Oasis Sauna: Pretty much the opposite of the sleek modernity of Macho Sauna, instead it is housed in a rather grand building filled with chandeliers, fireplaces, portraits and comfortable armchairs. All the usual facilities are to be found but with more of the atmosphere of an old-time Gentlemen’s Club.

Rue Van Orley 10, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 218 08 00
Open 11:30 – 22:00

The Stammbar: Open about the fact that it is a “music cruise bar, “ it is fitted out in an industrial style, has cruising areas, a dark room and is open every night. While it plays to the more obvious end of the scene, it is friendly and attitude free, popular with locals and visitors alike and manages to stay on the right side of the divide that separates sleazy and sexy from sordid and grubby.

Rue du Marché au Charbon 114, 1000 Bruxelles
+32 2 502 58 00
Open 09:00 – 04:00

La Baroque: Best described as compact and bijou but proves that size isn’t everything by being one of the most popular bars on the city’s the gay scene. It is full of colour and atmosphere, but most visitors drink outside. On the weekend, there’s usually a DJ who plays a mixture of club classics and pop music. Give him a wink, and he’ll play your favourite tune.

Kolenmarktstraat 44, 1000 Brussels

+32 492 03 16 08

Station BXL: Midweek is very busy. It has a retro feel, plenty of room for dancing, some dark corners for more intimate encounters and although it might be at the more expensive end of the drink pricing it is undoubtedly a comfortable and rewarding place to spend time.

Rue du Marche au Charbon 27, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 608 30 41
Open 17:00 – 04:00

Written by Ray Si – proud member of IGLTA

18th December 2018
This is how long you have to make a GREAT first impression

First date? New business meeting? You only have 27 seconds to make a good first impression, according to new research.

CREDIT: mast3r-bigstock

A study among 2,000 Americans examining the art of first impressions found that seven in ten of us (69 percent) form a first impression of somebody before they even speak.

The research investigated the key contributors and timings to a positive first impression and found that smiling, being polite, smelling nice, being a good listener, and making eye contact number among the leading factors.

The new survey by Dollar Shave Club was conducted to mark the launch of their cologne collection, Blueprint.

Results confirmed the importance of smelling good when seeking to form a positive first impression- as 85 percent of respondents said their first impression of somebody will be more positive if they smell good.

And that goes double when you’re on a date. Things move a bit quicker in the dating world, as six in ten (60 percent) admit they take even less time than normal to form a first impression in a dating context.

You better impress early, too, as the average person knows within 15 minutes into a date whether they want a second date or not, with half (50 percent) saying it takes even less time than that.

Quite a bit of prep goes into a first date, it turns out, and it may actually involve Google. If you’ve got a first date lined up, you better hope your online presence is squeaky clean, as two in three Americans say it’s a good idea to search your date online before meeting up.

Getting ready for a date was also found to take the average person 29 minutes, with one of the most crucial predate steps revealed to be picking out a scent. According to the study, over two in three questioned (68 percent) put a lot of thought into how they smell before a date.

“We know that a scent speaks volumes, and cologne is the last thing you apply before walking out the door. That’s why we created Blueprint, a range of six amazing colognes that are perfect for every occasion. Our award-winning fragrance team has created a thoughtful selection of colognes you won’t find anywhere else. Whatever your plans, we have a Blueprint,” said Nick Virginio, Senior Brand Development Manager.

All that preparation can make a real difference to a person’s confidence with nearly every respondent (89 percent) saying they feel more confident when they look and smell good.

And confidence can go a long way when it comes to dating, as 83 percent of us say they’re more likely to form a good first impression of somebody they perceive as confident.

But smelling bad, acting arrogantly and dressing poorly were found to be the top reasons people will form a bad first impression of somebody.

And if you fail to impress early on a date, then it probably won’t last for long. If a date is going poorly the average American will call it quits after just 16 minutes.

Four in ten of those surveyed (40 percent) admit to having a friend call and fake an emergency to get them out of a miserable date, while 39 percent say they’ve told a date they have to work early in order to cut ties with a bad match.

TOP 10 CONTRIBUTORS TO FORMING GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION

1. Smile (53%)

2. Polite (53%)

3. Well spoken (49%)

4. Eye contact (49%)

5. Good listener (48%)

6. Smells nice (46%)

7. Holds conversation well (46%)

8. Body language (44%

9. Tone of voice (44%)

10. Well dressed (42%)

TOP 3 CONTRIBUTORS TO FORMING A BAD FIRST IMPRESSION

1. Smells bad (66%)

2. Arrogant (62%)

3. Dresses poorly (49%)

FIRST DATE TIMELINE

29 minutes to get ready

27 seconds until first impression is made

15 minutes until you know if you want a second date

16 minutes is the earliest the average person has left a bad date

17 minutes until you know if you want a kiss at the end

20 minutes until you know if you want to go home with your date

TOP 5 BAD DATE TURN OFFS

1. Bad manners (64%)

2. Poor hygiene (59%)

3. On the phone too much (53%)

4. Talking about an ex (53%)

5. Bragging (52%)

10 OF THE FUNNIEST LIES AMERICANS HAVE COME UP WITH TO LEAVE A BAD DATE

● “My dog sitter has to be home at a certain time.”

● “I have a boyfriend.”

● “I have poison oak all over the lower half of my body and have to go put ointment on.”

● “I have to help someone whose car broke down.”

● “I once told my date that I have a dog that is sick. I didn’t own a dog at that time.”

● “Left a candle lit at home.”

● “My neighbour’s pet needs me.”

● “Said I was about to throw up cause of something I ate before.”

● “That my sister was going into labour! I don’t even have a sister!”

● “Saw an ex in the restaurant.”

18th December 2018
How LGBT friendly is Theresa May’s Cabinet

How has Theresa May’s cabinet voted in gay and LGBT+ issues throughout their time as MPs?

In order to get our LGBT friendly rating, we have combined absent and abstained votes as a non-vote. You can read a comment on this at the bottom of the article.

These findings were taken from the TheyWorkForYou.com website. In determining our rating we have highlighted major votes (as determined by TheyWorkForYou). We have left out “less important votes” which is why some tallies may not match the major votes.

Quick Analysis:

21 Ministers (and one Peer), including the Prime Minister.

Number of ministers who have a 50% or above LGBT friendly rating: 12/21

Number of ministers who have a 49% or under LGBT friendly rating: 9/21

Number of ministers who have a 100% LGBT friendly rating: 5/21

Number of ministers who have under a 20% LGBT friendly rating: 3/21

Prime Minister

Theresa May

8 votes for, 10 votes against, 9 absences, between 2002–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 5

2003: Civil partnerships.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 2

1998: Equalising the age of consent.

2002: Allowing gay couples to adopt children.

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 3

2003: Repeal a ban on the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Section 28.

2004: Allow Marriages to Remain Valid If They Become a Same-Sex Marriage.

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

Rating: 29.6%

Analysis of Theresa May’s LGBT voting:

Ms May is what we’d call an evolved Minister on LGBT+ and gay rights. Prior to 2004 she systematically voted against the rights of gay people in the UK. Then we see a 180-degree change in her voting pattern, although she did have a blip in 2007 when she failed to vote on the Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality law. Since the beginning of this decade, she has voted positively for LGBT+ community.

First Secretary Of State, Minister for the Cabinet Office

David Lidington

3 votes for, 18 votes against, 6 absences, between 2003–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 1

2004: Allow Marriages to Remain Valid If They Become a Same-Sex Marriage.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 3

1998: Equalising the age of consent.

2002: Allowing gay couples to adopt children.

2003: Repeal a ban on the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Section 28.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 4

2004: Civil partnerships.

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

Rating: 11.1%

Analysis of David Lidington’s LGBT voting:

David Lingtonton is one of worst voters on LGBT+ and gay matters in Theresa May’s Cabinet. He has nearly voted against or failed to turn up to every major vote concerning the equality of gay people in the UK since he took office. He has only voted positively on one major piece of legislation which was in 2004.

Chancellor of the Exchequer

Philip Hammond

3 votes for, 11 votes against, 13 absences, between 2002–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 2

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 2

1998: Equalising the age of consent.

2002: Allowing gay couples to adopt children.

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 6

2003: Repeal a ban on the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Section 28.

2003: Civil partnerships.

2004: Allow Marriages to Remain Valid If They Become a Same-Sex Marriage.

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

Rating: 11.1%

Analysis of Philip Hammond’s LGBT voting:

Philip Hammond has an appalling voting record on LGBT matters and his six failures to appear for a vote, to us, shows a very real lack of respect for gay rights and the LGBT+ community. He hasn’t, it would appear evolved on matters of LGBT rights, even failing to appear for the 2013 same-sex marriage vote.

Foreign Secretary

Jeremy Hunt

8 votes for, 2 votes against, between 2008–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 5

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 0

Rating: 80%

Analysis of Jeremy Hunt’s LGBT voting:

Jeremy has a perfect score for voting on gay and LGBT+ matters.

Home Secretary

Sajid Javid

2 votes for, 0 votes against, 5 absences, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 2

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 2

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

Rating: 28.5%

Analysis of Sajid Javid’s LGBT voting:

His absenteeism is cause for concern. Despite voting positively for same-sex marriage he didn’t attend a vote to equalise marriage laws or extend the right to marry to our armed forces.

Brexit Secretary

Stephen Barclay

4 votes for, 0 votes against, 3 absences, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 4

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

2014: Against various amendments to acts of Parliament in light of the introduction of same-sex marriage.

MAJOR NO VOTES:0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 1

Stephen Barclay was absent for a vote on Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill — Second Reading

Rating: 75%

Analysis of Stephen Barclays’s LGBT voting:

Almost perfect score for Mr Barclay’s voting record for LGBT Right. He was absent from the second reading of Marriage (same-sex couples) Bill, but ultimately voted for the rights of gay couples to marry.

Secretary of State for Defence

Gavin Williamson

2 votes for, 5 votes against, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 0

MAJOR NO VOTES: 5

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

2014: Against various amendments to acts of Parliament in light of the introduction of same-sex marriage.

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 0

Rating: 28.5%

Analysis of Gavin Williamson’s LGBT voting:

Gavin Williamson is one of worst voters on LGBT+ and gay matters in Theresa May’s Cabinet. He has voted against every major vote concerning the equality of gay people in the UK since he took office in 2010.

Health and Social Care Secretary

Matthew Hancock

7 votes for, 0 votes against, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 7

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

Rating: 100%

Analysis of Matthew Hancock’s LGBT voting:

Mr Hancock has a perfect score for voting on gay and LGBT+ matters.

Justice Secretary

David Gauke

7 votes for, 3 votes against, between 2007–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 4

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 1

2007: Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 0

Rating: 70%

Analysis of David Gauke’s LGBT voting:

David Gauke has a near perfect voting record on LGBT+ issues.

Education Secretary

Damian Hinds

7 votes for, 0 votes against, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 7

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

Rating: 100%

Analysis of Matthew Hancock’s LGBT voting:

Mr Hinds has a perfect score for voting on gay and LGBT+ matters.

Secretary of State for International Trade

Dr Liam Fox

2 votes for, 14 votes against, 11 absences, between 2003–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 0

MAJOR NO VOTES: 4

2002: Allowing gay couples to adopt children.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Both readings).

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 5

1998: Equalising the age of consent.

2003: Repeal a ban on the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Section 28.

2003: Civil partnerships.

2004: Allow Marriages to Remain Valid If They Become a Same-Sex Marriage.

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

Rating: 7.4%

Analysis of Dr Liam Fox’s LGBT voting:

Liam Fox has an appalling voting record on LGBT+ matters. He has systematically voted against or failed to attend votes pertaining to the LGBT+ community since 1998; doing his LGBT+ constituents in North Somerset a great disservice.

Secretary of State for Businesses, Energy and Industrial Strategy

Greg Clark

7 votes for, 1 vote against, 2 absences, between 2007–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 4

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 1

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

Rating: 70%

Analysis of Greg Clark’s LGBT voting:

Greg Clark has an almost perfect voting record for LGBT+ rights in the UK.

Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Michael Gove

5 votes for, 0 votes against, 5 absences, between 2008–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 3

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 2

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

Rating: 50%

Analysis of Michael Gove’s LGBT voting:

Although Michael Gove has never voted against LGBT+ equality he has been absent from half the votes that affected the gay community.

Secretary of State for Transport

Chris Grayling

9 votes for, 7 votes against, 4 absences, between 2002–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 5

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 3

2003: Repeal a ban on the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Section 28.

2003: Civil partnerships.

2004: Gender Recognition Bill

Rating: 45%

Analysis of Chris Grayling’s LGBT voting:

Chris Grayling is an almost 50-50 politician on LGBT+ matters. Although he has voted positively on many matters, his absence from some votes is cause for concern.

House and Communities Secretary

James Brokenshire

7 votes for, 3 votes against, between 2007–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 4

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 1

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 0

Rating: 70%

Analysis of James Brokenshire’s LGBT voting:

A good show for James Brokenshire and his voting on gay equality. However, there is one blip on his voting record and that was for 2007’s Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

Leader of the Lords

Baroness Evans

Secretary of State for Scotland

David Mundell

6 votes for, 3 votes against, 3 absences, between 2000–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 3

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 2

2007: Discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

Rating: 50%

Analysis of David Mundell’s LGBT voting:

We would have hoped that one of the UK’s highest profile out politicians would have a flawless voting record, however, Mundell has been absent from too many votes for our liking.

Secretary of State for Wales

Alun Cairns

2 votes for, 1 vote against, 4 absences, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 0

MAJOR NO VOTES: 1

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 3

2013: Same-sex marriage.

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

Rating: 28.5%

Analysis of Alun Cairn’s LGBT voting:

Mr Cairns’ voting record, although not the worst in the Cabinet, certainly fails his LGBT constituents in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Northern Ireland Secretary

Karen Bradley

7 votes for, 0 votes against, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 4

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 0

Rating: 100%

Analysis of Karen Bradley’s LGBT voting:

Ms Bradley has a perfect score for voting on gay and LGBT+ matters.

Secretary of State for International Development

Penny Mordaunt

7 votes for, 0 votes against, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 4

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTE: 0

Rating: 100%

Analysis of Penny Mordaunt’s LGBT voting:

Having only served as an MP since 2010, Penny Mordaunt is part of a new Conservative wave – a much more liberal thinker. Compared with some of her longer serving Cabinet members, she has voted in far fewer matters that concern the LGBT+ community however, she has consistently voted for LGBT+ rights and is one of the highest scorers on this league table.

Culture Secretary

Jeremy Wright

2 votes for, 4 votes against, 4 absences, between 2008–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 2

2013: Jeremy Wright voted in favour of allowing same-sex couples to marry. (in primary readings, but ultimately voted against same-sex marriage)

MAJOR NO VOTES: 4

2013: Jeremy Wright voted in favour of allowing same-sex couples to marry.

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 4

2013: Jeremy Wright was absent for a vote on Same-Sex Marriage — Enabling Courts to Deal with Divorce or Annulment Proceedings

2014: Jeremy Wright was absent for a vote on Make Same-Sex Marriage Available to Armed Forces Personnel Outside the United Kingdom

2007: Jeremy Wright was absent for a vote on Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations

Rating: 25%

Analysis of Jeremy Wright’s LGBT voting:

Having served since 2008, Mr Wright has had plenty of opportunities to enhance the rights of LGBT people in the UK, however, he has one of the worse ratings on Ms May’s Cabinet.

Work and Pensions Secretary

Amber Rudd

7 votes for, 0 votes against, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 5

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 0

Rating: 100%

Analysis of Amber Rudd’s LGBT voting:

Having only served as an MP since 2010, Amber Rudd is part of a new Conservative wave – a much more liberal thinker. Compared with some of her longer serving Cabinet members, she has voted in far fewer matters that concern the LGBT+ community however, she has consistently voted for LGBT+ rights and is one of the highest scorers on this league table.

Party Chair

Brandon Lewis

4 votes for, 0 votes against, 3 absences, between 2013–2014

MAJOR YES VOTES: 4

2013: Same-sex marriage. (Feb)

2013: Same-sex marriage. (May)

MAJOR NO VOTES: 0

MAJOR ABSENT VOTES: 3

2014: Enabling the courts to deal with proceedings for the divorce of, or annulment of the marriage of, a same-sex couple.

2014: Making same-sex marriage available to armed forces personnel outside the UK.

Rating: 57%

Analysis of Brandon’s LGBT voting:

Generally speaking Brandon has voted for the rights of LGBT+ people however was absent from three crucial votes which directly affect the rights of LGBT armed forces and allowing the courts to treat LGBT people in the matter of divorce.

How we calculated our results.
Using TheyWorkForYou.com we were able to define MPs’ voting records on equality issues. We made conclusions on an MP’s voting record – we counted Absent votes as a negative.

ABSENT COMMENT – Editor

For this analysis on how this government’s head ministers LGBT friendly rating, we have chosen to consider an absent or abstain vote as a no vote. In my opinion, if you are absent for a vote you are voting for the status quo – which often meant a poorer equality for the LGBT community, such as votes surrounding age of consent, repealing section 28 and of course same-sex marriage.

In my view, Abstaining is worse than Absent, because I believe that abstaining indicates a level of contempt and that certain issues are not even worth consideration.

18th December 2018
Met Police are reaching out to sex workers to combat violent attacks against the community

The Metropolitan Police have launched a campaign to reach out to sex workers in London who are victims of violence.

(C) BIGSTOCK / DEPOSITPHOTOS

On the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) is today encouraging those who work in the industry and find themselves victims of crime to have the confidence to report to police.

“Increased risk of violence and abuse”

Commander Richard Smith, the Met’s lead on Safeguarding, said, “We are supporting this positive day of action and recognition; working to reduce the violence experienced by sex workers is something we do all year round. By the very nature of sex work, those engaged in the activity are at increased risk of violence and abuse and are often reluctant to report such matters to the police. We understand the barriers, fears and reluctance that sex workers might face when they consider reporting abuse, but we take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously and will investigate them fully. We are seeking to increase sex-workers’ confidence to report allegations to the police and seek advice from the wide range of support agencies operating across London.”

The MPS has a senior Lead Responsible Officer (LRO) at Superintendent level responsible for developing a coordinated response to reduce the risk and harm faced by sex-workers & the associated impacts on local communities.

Commander Smith, adds, “No one, regardless of their profession, should be the victim of any form of violence or abuse, and we will continue to support ending violence against those working in the sex trade. Our primary focus will always be to protect vulnerable individuals from harm, regardless of their circumstances.

“Dealing with sex work presents some considerable and complex challenges and requires police to work closely with local communities and both statutory and voluntary partners. Alongside our commitment to protect vulnerable people from harm, we recognise the adverse impact that prostitution can cause to local communities. We will take appropriate action when it is necessary and proportionate to do so to keep all members of London’s communities safe. We also actively pursue individuals who control & coerce others to enter or remain in prostitution and who profit from trafficking and exploitation. The police response to sex work in London has evolved significantly and we maintain strong working relationships with a number of support agencies including National Ugly Mugs (NUM).”

60 to 80 crimes every month

Dr Raven Bowen, CEO of National Ugly Mugs (NUM) states, “Since 2012, NUM has been a formalised mechanism for sex workers to report crimes perpetrated against them. Through our scheme, sex workers either share this information anonymously with others, or go forward to provide full reports to police and proceed through the criminal justice system in pursuit of justice.

“We receive between 60 and 80 reports of crime by sex workers every month, more than one every day; however, less than 10% access police for support due to the combined effects of continued criminalisation, stigma and harmful social policies. We aim to shape services to be more responsive to the needs of sex workers.

Dr Bowen adds: “NUM and MPS collaborate around shared goals of increasing sex workers’ access to justice and reducing the rates of victimisation. This year, NUM has launched our #IDEVASW memorial card (available on our website) that holds the names of 182 sex workers who have been murdered since 1990. Unfortunately, this week we added yet another name to this list. We urge your acknowledgement of the valuable lives of sex workers, and ask your commitment towards activities that reduce predatory violence and increase rights, entitlements and protections for these valuable members of our communities.”

17th December 2018