Comments on: Report calls for more encouragement of gay would-be MPs

By: Anonanon

Anonanon — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 11:35:32 +0000

Our country is already being led by the homosexual Mandelson and compatriots, lets have more straight MP’s.

By: NigelW

NigelW — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:15:20 +0000

I agree with Cyril that electroal reform is the real route to guaranteeing a representative parliament. Countries which have succeeded in getting a sensible number of woment into parliament all have some form of PR, and multi-member constituencies, which overcomes the problems of positive discrimination, exclusion from shortlists, and carping from constituency committees. Amusing though it might be, I can’t see us getting an all gay shortlist anywhere soon, not even in Islington or Vauxhall.

I hope the article wasn’t suggesting that being able to get ‘married’ in Westminster would actually make anybody seek elected office!

By: Philippa Roberts

Philippa Roberts — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 14:45:29 +0000

As an openly gay woman standing as a Labour candidate in the next election, I can only say that I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the level of support I’ve received. My sexuality has never been a problem, or even an issue worth discussion within my local party. But I’m glad to see recognition of the fact that parliament is not yet representative.

By: Dave North

Dave North — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 14:01:30 +0000

Merit Only. No positive discrimination.

By: Cyril

Cyril — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:30:02 +0000

I think electoral reform would help achieve more balanced representation for all groups, not just gay people.

If a party is running say three or four candidates in a multi-member constituency then they will find it much easier to put up a broad range of candidates.