Same-sex couples to be banned by British Dance Council?

A plan that could see same-sex couples banned from taking part in ballroom dance competitions has caused controversy.

The British Dance Council (BDC) is to debate a rule change which would see a partnership defined as “one man and one lady… unless otherwise stated”, BBC News reports.

BDC president Bryan Allen said that the discussion has been prompted following complaints that same-sex couples have an unfair advantage, particular in the case of two male dancers, who may have greater strength.

He added that the BDC simply want to “regulate the situation”, and do not intend to introduce a ban on same-sex partnerships.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Allen said: “If this was passed there’d be very few, if any, competitions just for mixed sex couples – however it would establish equality.”

Heather Devine, the current European same-sex senior women’s champion, has accused the BDC of “condoning discriminatory behaviour”, adding that she sees no “evidence” that two male dancers have an advantage over mixed or same-sex female couples.

The proposal will be debated fully by BDC’s board of directors on Monday, July 21.

> Tom Daley for US Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame
> Dan Osborne becomes ‘Attitude’s new fitness expert