Comment on response to Ken Livingstone's New Statesmen article

“Ken certainly has a unique way with words, and we wouldn't have used that description, but the idea that he is homophobic or anti-gay is completely absurd.

“Ken was supporting the LGBT community 30 years ago when Tory MPs were still voting to keep homosexuality illegal in parts of the UK. He was arguing in support of our community when doing so got you a kicking from the political establishment and the press and it certainly didn't win you votes.

“From political recognition to partnership rights, from grants for LGBT groups to a charter for gay rights, he was ahead of almost all other politicians including his own party. We're happy to let Ken's record on LGBT rights speak for itself."

James Asser, LGBT Labour Co-chair