Peter Tatchell: 80% of Commonwealth nations criminalise homosexuality

The gay rights campaigner, Peter Tatchell, is calling on Commonwealth nations to sign a declaration saying they will not discriminate against athletes in the forthcoming games in Glasgow.

He claims 80% of participating countries criminalise homosexuality. Speaking during Birmingham Pride, which saw huge crowds in spite of heavy rain, he said:

"I totally support Glasgow hosting the Commonwealth Games, but I think they should require every participating nation to sign a declaration saying that they will not discriminate - on any grounds - in the selection of their athletes.

"Right now, most Commonwealth countries would never, ever, select an openly gay or lesbian athlete - no matter how good they are - and that is because of the deeply ingrained homophobia in those countries. That is really unfair, it is not sporting and it should not be tolerated!"