Wes Streeting describes ‘unbelievable volume’ of homophobic abuse since becoming defence secretary

<p>Streeting says role is chance to show strength and challenge stereotype that ‘persists in dark corners of internet’</p><p>Wes Streeting has described receiving a mass of homophobic abuse since he was made defence secretary last month, while also saying his appointment had been welcomed by some in the Ministry of Defence (MoD) as a sign of change.</p><p>Until 2000, gay men and lesbian women were banned from serving in the UK military, with about 200-plus personnel thrown out of the forces each year due to their sexuality – an estimate, as proper records were not kept.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/aug/26/wes-streeting-homophobic-abuse-uk-defence-secretary">Continue reading...</a>