Deputy Commons Speaker comes out
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Deputy Commons Speaker has come out as gay ahead of today's launch of a support group for homosexual MPs and parliamentary staff.
Nigel Evans, 53, said he was "tired of living a lie" and decided to go public after a fellow Tory asked whether he should include him on a list of powerful gay politicians.
Mr Evans, the MP for Ribble Valley, also said a Labour MP had been threatening to "out" him. "I don't want any other MP to face that kind of nastiness again," he said.
"I am sure there are other gay MPs who would like to be open about their sexuality but are fearful of the consequences." Mr Evans, an MP for 18 years and a former shadow Cabinet minister, becomes the 22nd openly gay Commons member.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments