U.K. Gay Rights Activists Back 'Brokeback Coalition"
MP David Davis had taken a swipe at the partnership by reportedly comparing Clegg and PM David Cameron to gay cowboys from hit movie Brokeback Mountain.
But campaigner Peter Tatchell urged the Prime Minister and his deputy to stave off a backbench revolt and overturn “anti-gay” laws.
He said: “I am certain that David Cameron and Nick Clegg both believe that a ban on gay marriage should be lifted.
“I think they are just afraid any action might kick up a fuss with senior backbenchers. The Government also continues to endorse the lifetime ban on gays and bisexual men donating blood even though they practise safe sex. But again, I think Cameron and Clegg are open to change on this issue.
“David Davis’ comment was obviously a bit of a humorous swipe but I’m all for the Brokeback Coalition if it means these bans are lifted.”
Ex-Shadow Home Secretary Davis was allegedly overheard in a pub making the remark. He is also said to have dismissed Mr Cameron’s Big Society as “Blairite dressing”.
But Lib Dem leader Clegg dismissed the Brokeback barb at a Question and Answer session in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, yesterday.
When one critic raised doubts over the coalition he hit back: “Maybe you should speak to David Davis.”
He added: “I don’t think you should overinterpret overheard remarks from some person in a South London pub.”
Scott Hesketh
UK Daily Star...http://www.actup.org
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