Lord Browne's world came crashing down yesterday after he was caught out lying to a court about how he first met his ex-boyfriend, Jeff Chevalier. Browne was moronic to believe in or expect any loyalty from a prostitute. So in that regard he only had himself to blame when details of the relationship inevitably became public knowledge.

In a week which saw the introduction of equality laws which protect people from discrimination, the way the case was reported in certain sections of the media reminded us that there is some way to go before society accepts lgbt people on an equal basis. Very few kids in school are happy to 'come out' to their classmates because they know they are likely to face hostility and prejudice.

Should there be events such as the 'Stamp out Homophobia in School' petition (see blog 29 December 2005) or a Childline report on homophobia (blog 30 August 2006) then I have little doubt, bearing in mind the BBC's recent firm commitment to be inclusive, that Newsround would properly report them both today. That is a significant step forward in tackling prejudice and discrimination which is unfortunately still rife in British society.

Ben Summerskill from Stonewall and Tom Cordrey from the Lawyers' Christian Fellowship debated the new Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2007 on BBC Breakfast last Monday morning. You can read the debate transcript online.