cooperation between the Government and the voluntary sector, as these have been the key concerns expressed to me by support groups I have visited across the country. I am also pleased that the event will bring contributions from speakers whose jobs provide them with first-hand experience of confronting these issues.

'This event will enable us to gain a fuller understanding of the concerns and views of voluntary groups, and the young people they support. We will be using the feedback to ensure that our policies reach out fully to the gay community - for too often, the prejudices and abuse that many homosexuals face are simply ignored by politicians. It’s now time this changed, and I am happy to help make that change happen.'

Tim Yeo MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Public Services, Health & Education, will open the summit. Contributions will also be heard from Conservative London mayoral candidate Steve Norris, Shadow Secretary of State for Health Andrew Lansley MP, Commander Brian Paddick of the Metropolitan Police, and Dr David Bull.

The event will address issues such as tackling homophobic abuse, leading healthy lifestyles, and improving cooperation between the voluntary sector and government. Over 140 organisations have been invited to take part in the event, and it has the support of the Terrence Higgins Trust.

James Davenport, Chairman of Gay Conservatives, said the summit was indicative of the way Conservatives were preparing for government: 'Conservatives represent all Britain and all Britons. This summit is typical of the the way we are preparing for government after the next general election. By consulting as widely as possibly, by hearing the experiences of a wide range of people and taking their ideas into account, we are increasing the breadth of experience on which our polices are based.'

And the government had failed to consult in a similar way, he added: 'Whilst we are listening to the people, Labour just plays political games with gay rights. We are seeking real solutions to real problems - we want the best for young gay men and lesbians.'