Tory Party Conference: LGBT+ group to offer free condoms

Conservative activists will be offered free condoms and dental dams at this year's party conference.

The prophylactics - featuring humorous slogans such as "strong and stable" and "honourable member" - will be handed out by the LGBT+ Conservatives group.

Chair Elena Rose Bunbury said: "We all know people like a good time at conferences, and we're here to help ensure that happens safely."

They have ordered 500 protective items for the four-day event in Birmingham.

"We don't know if that's enough but, all our money is fundraised and we have to justify where our money is being sent," said Ms Bunbury.

She added that the group's volunteers would "use the chance to talk about our campaigns and the importance of wearing condoms and consent".

Commenting on the current monkeypox outbreak, which can be spread through sexual contact, Ms Bunbury said: "We advise all condom users to stay up to date with the relevant health care advice.

"If you do have monekpox please refer to your GP or any local sexual health professional for advice on when to resume sexual or intimate activity."

Political parties have used promotional condoms before, including UKIP, who sold them to raise funds at their 2018 conference in Birmingham.

But this is thought to be the first time such items have been handed out at a Conservative Party conference.

The packaging will feature slogans including "Unleash Britain's Potential" and "Labour isn't working, but this condom will (*99% of the time)".

Some patrons of the LGBT+ Conservatives group, including two MPs also have personalised slogans, including:

The BBC understands dozens of MPs were approached to feature on the contraceptives but either declined or did not respond.

Every year political parties - including Labour, the Conservatives, the SNP and the Liberal Democrats - hold a conference for their members and affiliate groups.

Conferences usually involve late nights and intense socialising as members have a chance to meet, debate and hear speeches by key figures - including the party leader.