Gay British Men Can Now Give Blood — If They're Celibate

As of November 7, gay men in England, Scotland, and Wales will be allowed to give blood — as long as they haven’t had oral or anal sex with a man, with a condom or without, in the last year. Previously, gay men had been completely banned from donating (they’re still banned in the US). Carl Burnell of the gay men’s health group GMFA, says “the removal of the ban to a one-year deferral is great news but it’s going to leave some gay men frustrated that they still can’t donate blood.” They’re so demanding! Why won’t they accept an entire year of celibacy as a prerequisite for helping others?