U.K. Pol Wants More Out Athletes

After a handful of European professional athletes have come out as gay, one politician is hoping that even more will go public about their sexual orientation, to foster an environment of tolerance in sports.

U.K. equalities minister Lynne Featherstone, in paying tribute to out cricket player Steven Davies and Welsh rugby player Gareth Thomas, said there should be an "atmosphere and ambience" in soccer to allow athletes to come out, according to the Press Association (U.K.).

During question time at the House of Commons last week, Conservative MP Mark Menzies asked what steps were being taken to encourage more athletes, particularly soccer players, to come out.

"Obviously it is very important and we look forward to working with the Football Association to create an atmosphere and ambience where footballers also feel free to come forward and come out if they wish," Featherstone replied. "Not just for the sake of the league and themselves but also for the sake of youngsters all over the country who should be able to play on any field of sport free of any kind of discrimination."