Homosexuals In Britain (Press, 19 December 1955)

On 19 December 1955, a report from the British Medical Association (B.M.A.) sparked controversy by alleging that some Members of Parliament (M.P.s) are involved in homosexual practices. The report, compiled by a panel of 12 distinguished doctors, psychiatrists, and criminologists, addressed issues surrounding homosexuality and prostitution, revealing a significant increase in reported homosexual offences since 1940, rising to over 6,000 cases annually. The report acknowledged this number likely represented only a small fraction of actual occurrences. The B.M.A. characterised the visible behaviour of homosexuals in public spaces—such as pubs, streets, and restaurants—as an affront to public decency. It further identified the presence of practising homosexuals in various sectors, including the Church, Parliament, civil services, media, and the entertainment industry, as a notable issue. While the report recognised that certain individuals might be inherently effeminate, it suggested that most homosexual behaviour is acquired rather than innate. It also noted that many homosexuals exhibit positive social traits and often suppress their desires. In addressing the issue of youth safety, the report advocated for stricter selection processes for positions involving children, such as school teachers and scout leaders, who might exploit their roles to influence boys negatively. It opposed the practice of incarcerating convicted homosexuals in conventional prisons, praising the potential for them to corrupt fellow inmates. Instead, the B.M.A. proposed the establishment of dedicated treatment centres overseen by teams of doctors and religious workers, aimed at rehabilitating homosexual offenders. Despite acknowledging that current treatments are largely ineffective due to many homosexuals not wishing to change, the report called for further research into more effective treatment options. Concerning prostitution, the B.M.A. recommended robust measures against street prostitution, including increased financial penalties for soliciting and the introduction of reform schools for young girls involved in vice. The overall tone of the report suggests a desire to promote public morality and safeguard societal structure, reflecting the prevailing attitudes of the time regarding homosexuality and prostitution.

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