Learning Objective: This is a reading and comprehension class. At the end of the session, the participants are expected to be able to practice reading properly, enhance comprehension and recall and answer the questions about the article.


Story Proper

The United Kingdom has told countries that have banned homosexuality that they risk losing overseas aid if they do not end their discrimination. Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron told reporters he is considering holding back aid from countries that do not recognize gay rights. "Britain is now one of the premier aid givers in the world. We want to see countries that receive our aid adhering to proper human rights, and that includes how people treat gay and lesbian people," Cameron told the BBC. He added: "British aid should have more strings attached, in terms of do you persecute people for their faith or their Christianity, or do you persecute people for their sexuality. We don't think that's acceptable."

Mr Cameron raised the issue of gay rights at the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Australia. The Commonwealth is the group of countries that have Britain’s Queen Elizabeth as their head of state. Cameron said he personally spoke with several African countries, but did not say which ones. As many as 41 nations of the 54-member Commonwealth have laws against homosexuality. Many of these laws were introduced at the time of the British Empire. Cameron accepted that change would happen slowly, saying: "They are in a different place from us on this issue....I think these countries are all on a journey and it's up to us to try and help them along on that journey."


Activity Proper





"Online activities, the mp3 and printable handouts are available for this lesson at http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com"