For Safe Sex It’s Back To Boswell—and The... (Press, 10 January 1987)

On 10 January 1987, Britain's Social Services Minister Norman Fowler stressed the importance of safe sex, urging individuals to either remain monogamous or use condoms if they cannot. The British Government is contemplating lifting a ban on condom advertisements on television due to rising concerns and fatalities linked to AIDS. This societal shift has led to comparisons between the current crisis and the historical context of condom use. Colin Smith from the London "Observer" noted that the practice of condom use for protection against sexually transmitted diseases is not new, referencing James Boswell’s "London Journal" from the 18th century. Boswell’s diary entries reveal that he engaged in sexual activities while employing "armour" or condoms, albeit with a lack of knowledge about their effectiveness. Boswell’s experiences highlight an era when trust in sexual partners could lead to negative health outcomes, similar to the fears surrounding AIDS today. The history of condoms spans approximately 2,000 years, with examples from ancient Roman and Chinese practices. Early condoms were made from materials such as animal bladders and silk. The terminology surrounding condoms remains unclear, though one theory suggests that the term “condom” might derive from a physician associated with Charles II or possibly from the French town of Condom. By the late 18th century, the first commercial production of gut condoms began in London. The London Rubber Company (LRC), which is primarily known for producing condoms such as Durex, has evolved since its establishment in 1916. The introduction of vulcanised rubber facilitated the mass production of these preventive devices. During World War II, condoms were distributed to British soldiers, ostensibly to keep gun barrels dry, while later developments included the lubricated condom and those with spermicidal lubricants in the 1970s. Despite these advances, usage of condoms has seen a decline in Britain, with only about 1.3 million users compared to the nearly 3 million who rely on the Pill. The once-popular condom has suffered from a dated image, perceived as unappealing by younger generations, leading the LRC to design colourful, novelty condoms in an attempt to modernise their market appeal. The company, located in the Walthamstow area, is notable for its large production process and rigorous quality testing. Staff members check the condoms’ durability by inflating batches until they burst and assessing their elastic properties. While LRC acknowledges the potential to contribute to AIDS prevention efforts, it operates under strict regulations regarding advertisement and public visibility. The British Government plans to launch a campaign to educate the public about AIDS and promote condom use, yet the company remains cautious about projecting high profits from a possible surge in demand, signalling a slower public uptake of condom usage in the wake of the ongoing epidemic.

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