THEGAYUK

Tag: UK

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

    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

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

    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

  • 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’

    PrEP pills
    (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

    CREDIT: tashatuvango-bigstock

    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)

  • How LGBT friendly is Theresa May’s Cabinet

    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.

  • 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.”

  • Gay bar security staff sacked after asking customers for money to free event

    Gay bar security staff sacked after asking customers for money to free event

    Security staff at a bar in Birmingham have been dismissed after it was revealed that they were asking for money from patrons before allowing them to enter the premises.

    Missing Bar in Birmingham has fired their on door security team after it was revealed that the bouncers were demanding money from patrons before allowing them to enter the building, even though the venue itself does not charge an entrance fee.

    The bar’s management offered an apology to its customers and told patrons that the security staff were dismissed “on the spot” and the money collected was donated to charity.

    Patrons of the bar were quick to congratulate the bar’s owners on their swift decision making and resolving the issue quickly.

    Taking to Facebook Missing bar wrote,

    “AN APOLOGY
    “We were made aware that our door security team were asking customers to pay an entrance fee last night.

    “We have never charged for entry at Missing and never will.

    “Both of the security team were dismissed on the spot and any money they collected will be donated to charity”.

    One user who was asked to give money to the door staff on Thursday night last week did say that the bouncers had made it clear that the money “was non-obligatory”.

    One Facebook fan said that the behaviour from the door staff was “shocking”. Another added that it was good that the bar hadn’t taken the side of the bouncers, while another agreed saying, “I totally agree with this from past issues with their bouncers”.

     

  • Students singing ‘fagg*t’ from Fairytale Of New York is disturbing

    A  video of students at a Birmingham university singing along to ‘Fairytale of New York’, but only knowing the lines including the homophobic slur “faggot” has gone viral.

    The video which was captured by Georgia Walshe shows how, as she describes, a “upper-class, homophobic, racist” group of “Tory” students singing along to the Christmas classic, ‘Fairytale of New York’, however the only words they know is the line proceeding the homophobic insult “faggot” – to which they sing at the top of their voices.

    The video has been retweeted over 500 times and “liked” over 3700 times.

    The song was being played at a party at which Walshe did not attend but could hear throughout the student halls. She made the video to demonstrate the level of noise past midnight when the Christmas hit started to play.

    Writing on Twitter, Walshe wrote, “As soon as I heard what song was on I knew straight away when they were gna [sic] get louder – absolute tories”

    In the evergreen Christmas-hit, Kirsty MacColl sings the line “You scumbag, you maggot, you cheap lousy faggot.” The line causes a debate every year about whether the slur should be removed or censored from the song as some people in the LGBT+ community find it very problematic.

    The video which Walshe shared has now gone viral.

    Speaking to Gay Star News Walshe said, “I just don’t associate with these people, they’re not my type of people. I don’t know them by name.

    “I’ve met a lot of those lot in the first few weeks [from freshers parties]. I’ve heard them sing along and use the ‘N’ word in songs.

    “When I heard Fairytale of New York come on, I knew what I was going to hear. It’s part of their entitled homophobic bigotry.”

    Number 1 Christmas Song

    The Pogues’ “Fairytale of New York” has been crowned the best Christmas song of all time.

    However, the song crowned number one contains a homophobic slur and is found problematic by some. Every year a debate rages about whether the song should have the word “faggot” bleeped or silenced when it is broadcast publicly.

    Topping Mariah’s “All I Want For Christmas” and WHAM!’s “Last Christmas”, “Fairytale of New York” has been crowned the nation’s favourite Christmas song.

    It also managed to top Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas“, which took the fourth spot.

    In 2007, BBC’s Radio 1 in the UK, censored the offending word, but soon reinstated it after a public backlash.

     

  • 2021 Census will include questions about gender and sexuality

    The UK’s 2021 census will include questions to help determine the size of Britain’s LGBT+ community.

    ellisedelacruz / Pixabay

    The digital first 2021 Census will help shape public services to meet the needs of the LGBT+ community in the years to come, as plans set out in a government white paper today show.

    The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has recommended a new voluntary question on sexual orientation for those aged 16 and over. In addition to the usual question on being male or female for all ages, there will also be a voluntary question on gender identity in England and Wales for those aged over 16.

    It was always the intention of ONS that these questions would be voluntary.

    The data gathered from these questions will make it easier to monitor inequalities under the anti-discrimination duties of the Equality Act 2010 and to directly plan public services and support for these groups.

    “Stand Up and Be Counted”

    National Statistician, John Pullinger, said: “The Census is for everyone; it gives us all the opportunity to stand up and be counted in democratic debate and policy decisions.

    “We have designed it with people at its heart and we consulted widely to ensure it meets the needs of society. Unlike previous Censuses, it will be digital first which will make it easier to complete electronically, with help available for those who need it.”

    The date for the digital-first census has been confirmed as 21 March 2021, subject to parliamentary approval.

    Information gathered by ONS will ensure vital public services can be targeted into communities and groups where they are needed, in 2021 and beyond.  

    ONS is transforming the way it collects, processes and shares data and the next census is part of a wider drive towards making more use of data already held and moving surveys online.

    In line with previous censuses, ONS will hold a census rehearsal in October 2019 and is currently reviewing which local authority areas will be included.

    For more information, see the white paper which has been laid today in Parliament.

    How many LGBT people are there in the UK?

    (C) BIGSTOCK

    The number of people who identify as lesbian, gay and bisexual is a hotly debated subject, with no clear answer, but here will look at all the available stats.

    There has long been a widely-held belief that around 10 per cent of the population is gay, lesbian or bisexual or who identify as non-heterosexual. This is probably the most accurate of all the figures – as more and more people feel comfortable to come out about their sexuality.

    The ONS (Office of National Statistics) says that in a survey of people in the United Kingdom it found that 1.5 per cent of people identified as LGB. This result was arrived at by extrapolation of data collected. However, these statistics were disputed for not being accurate or showing the full picture.

    By their estimations, this would mean that there are only 990,300 LGB people in the UK.

  • Theatre Review | Kiss Me, Kate – Crucible Theatre

    ★★★★☆ | Kiss Me, Kate – Crucible Theatre

    Written by Cole Porter in the 1940’s, Kiss Me, Kate is a delightful, old-fashioned musical, combining the classic elements of mistaken identity, a will they/won’t they love story, a bit of swindling and a bunch of likeable characters all interwoven with an appealing collection of songs by one of the best composers of the era.

    Porter’s tale stages a play within a play, telling the story of Fred Graham, an actor and director who casts his ex-wife as his co-star; and finds himself in hot water when one of his other leading men signs off a gambling debt in his name. He tries desperately to keep his musical production of The Taming Of The Shrew on track, as a couple of inept gangsters show up to collect the debt and Grahams relationship with his ex-wife sways between love and hate. But as everything falls apart and the backstage bickering starts to mirror the story on stage, Graham does everything he can in ensuring that the show must go on.

    The songs from Kiss Me, Kate are some of Porter’s most sterling work, with an overarching jazzy vibe which made the musical numbers delightfully catchy. The songs still sparkle and fizz with wit and humour, and there is a show-stopping number at the opening of each act. “Another Openin’, Another Show”, “Tom, Dick or Harry” and “Too Darn Hot” were all proper toe-tappers, and the multiple reprises of “Brush Up Your Shakespeare” were delightfully laughter inducing.

    Edward Baker Duly and Rebecca Lock were superb as the quibbling couple, whilst Dex Lee was criminally underused as Bill and his triple threat status certainly makes him one to watch; but stealing most of their scenes were Delroy Atkinson and Joel Montague as the ham-fisted mobsters. Paul Foster directs with a steady hand, whilst Strictly choreographer Matt Flint keeps the musical numbers light and fun. Only the costume and set design let the show down slightly, with too much of a cartoonish feel to both to really work.

    Kiss Me, Kate is firmly established as a classic, traditional musical and this is a fun, frenetic and frivolous production which, as a sucker for an old-fashioned musical, I found very hard to resist.

    Kiss Me, Kate is at the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield until 12th January 2018. Visit their website at www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk for details and tickets.

  • THEATRE REVIEW | The Band

    ★☆☆☆☆ | The Band


    The new show The Band is not, as you might think, a musical about Take That – but it damn well should’ve been.

    What we get is a show about four forty-something women who reunite after not having seen other for a long time to see their favourite boy band (now of course no longer a boy band) at a reunion tour concert in Prague. Why Prague you might ask? Because one of the women won a competition to see the band perform there. Why couldn’t one of them have bought tickets to a more local show if they loved the band so much? Well, that would’ve been too easy and would’ve left out one of the major plot points of this show – a broken penis.

    Yes, a broken penis. You see, while the women are in Prague, they get a bit carried away and break the penis off of a priceless statue. Now, if this would happen in real life the women would’ve gotten heavily fined, and perhaps jail time. But when said penis, which is attached to a statue that actually does come to life (before the said penis is broken off), with the penis visible for all the audience to see, it makes for one of the most unintentional laughable moments in the West End. It’s not just laughable – it’s shockable! Who signed off on this scene? And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Take That’s big hit ‘Relight My Fire’ is sung while the characters (while still schoolgirls) are on a bus heading home from a concert, with the carefully hand-picked cast of the boy singers dressed up in bondage gear (with horse helmets). And then all of a sudden out of nowhere one of the girls is killed. Hmmm?

    Another head scratcher is when the song ‘Never Forget’ is sung by the fab five in an airport lounge. There is also a bit of fat shaming in the show (one of the women is obese). Did I mention that the boys can’t really hold a tune and sing in harmony? Or in tune? Not once is the band introduced as characters, meanwhile, they glossfully sing in the background to scenes that have no real connection to the songs.

    This is a jukebox musical that is as empty as a machine with no quarters in it. Sure the songs are great (who doesn’t love a Take That song or two), and one of the women happens to be lesbian, and AJ Bentley has the strongest vocals of all, but what do you expect from a musical show where the singers (boyband) were chosen from a reality television show?

    Whoever signed off on this mess should be really ashamed of themselves. Robbie, Howard, Gary and Mark – you listening?

    The Band plays at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, London. Book tickets now

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Northern Ballet’s The Nutcracker – Leeds Grand Theatre

    ★★★★☆ | Northern Ballet’s The Nutcracker – Leeds Grand Theatre

    Everyone has their own event which confirms to them that the festive season has arrived, and for some, Christmas isn’t Christmas until they have had their traditional trip to see Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. The ballet tells the story of Clara, a young girl who is given a gift of a nutcracker which comes to life, and the handsome Nutcracker Prince transports her on a magical journey to battle The Mouse King, to sweep through a snow-filled forest and on to a celebration in an enchanted garden.

    There are a number of things to recommend this production, there is humour in its presentation, with some well-timed moments of comedy, whilst the scene in the snow-filled wood was enchanting. David Nixon has choreographed a thoroughly enjoyable ballet which simultaneously feels both traditional and fresh, and which has benefitted enormously from its new look and costumes.

    Northern Ballet is well known for their theatrical presentation and their storytelling; both of which combine to make this revamped production ideal for all. Young families will be charmed by the magic and spectacle; ballet novices will find the story accessible and enjoy the well-paced number of short set pieces which provides plenty of variation; and for those with a love for ballet, there are the technically impressive performances. Throw into the mix a live orchestra performing a score which you will instantly recognise and you have all the elements of a beautifully presented ballet.

    The Nutcracker is an utterly charming, enchanting and high-class production which is full of sparkle; and if the end of the first act doesn’t leave you feeling festive, then very little will.

    Northern Ballet’s The Nutcracker is at Leeds Grand Theatre until the 16th December 2018. Visit www.northernballet.com for more details