Wes Streeting faces unprecedented online homophobia as Defence Secretary
Since becoming Defence Secretary in July, Wes Streeting has been targeted by more online homophobia than at any other point in his life, reports BritPanorama.
During an appearance on LBC’s All Talk podcast, he described the “unbelievable volume” of abuse he has faced, attributing it to some people’s inability to accept a gay person in such a high-ranking military position.
Streeting made history as the first openly gay Defence Secretary under Andy Burnham’s leadership.
The armed forces have a long and troubling history regarding LGBTQ+ service members; between 1967 and 2000, gay individuals were banned from serving in the army, navy, and air force. Those suspected of being gay often faced brutal interrogation and bullying, leading to profound long-term consequences on their lives and careers.
Currently, LGBT+ ex-servicemen and women who endured historical mistreatment have until December 12 to apply for a financial redress scheme and have been encouraged to come forward.
Streeting noted the volume of online abuse has dramatically increased in the past three weeks: “Unbelievable volume – because people cannot cope with the idea that a gay person might lead the armed forces of the United Kingdom.” He expressed pride in witnessing the shift from a time when gay individuals were barred from military service to now having a gay Defence Secretary.
In his first week in office, he recounted a conversation with someone at the Ministry of Defence who expressed pride in his appointment, saying it meant a lot to many who remember the “bad old days.” This comment resonated with Streeting, highlighting the significance of his role.
Speaking at the Edinburgh Fringe earlier this month, he remarked on the discrepancy between the media’s muted coverage of his appointment and the stark online reactions. Despite the negativity, he views his position as an opportunity to demonstrate “strength” and to counter enduring stereotypes present in less tolerant spaces.
Before assuming the role of Defence Secretary, Streeting served as health secretary under Sir Keir Starmer, resigning in May this year after expressing a loss of confidence in the then-prime minister.
The challenges he faces underscore ongoing societal tensions and the persistent fight for equality within the UK’s military establishment.
