Members of the Conservative party have slammed a nightclub in Manchester after they hosted an anti-Tory night to coincide with the party's political conference there.
Last night, while openly-gay Conservative Vice Chair Margot James and political blogger Iain Dale courted the pink vote at an official Conservative event in Canal Street's Spirit Bar, LGBT Labour had organised a counter-party called Tory Shame, which was held at neighbouring Poptastic.
The Chair of LGBTory - the Conservative LGBT campaign group - Matthew Sephton, has condemned the club for being overtly political and anti-Conservative in their decision to host the night.
He said: “It is a shame that Poptastic has chosen to hold this event which appears to aim only to stir up negativity and political division in the LGBT movement, at a time when we need to be as united as possible.”
He added: It is the first time an official event has been organised on this scale and it is a clear signal to the LGBT community that we are valued and have a valid part to play in the future of our country and the Conservative Party.”
“The Conservative Party is a modern, dynamic Party but has always had many LGBT members and campaigners. Currently we have more LGBT councillors and prospective MPs than ever before and that is something to be celebrated.”
The organisers of Tory Shame hit back at Sephton’s claims: “Tory Shame” is a special night being held by LGBT Labour in Manchester tonight to coincide with the Conservative party conference.
”The event will throw a spotlight on David Cameron and his party’s continued opposition to LGBT rights.
“In this Parliament, Conservatives have continued to vote against equal rights for LGBT people - despite their warm words.”