Closet queens : some 20th century British politicians

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Closet Queens is a fascinating study of gay men in twentieth century British politics, from Lord Rosebery and Lord Beauchamp in Edwardian times to Michael Portillo and Peter Mandelson in our own era.

As all homosexual activity was illegal until 1967, and exposure meant ruin and disgrace, such men were obliged either to repress their sexual feelings or else lead double lives, indulging their tastes secretly while respectably married with children.

The need to cover up their sexuality, while causing problems and disappointments, often sharpened their skills as politicians - they were masters of secrecy and subterfuge, and knew how to take calculated risks.

An entertaining and insightful account of some extraordinary personalities, Closet Queens opens doors into a hidden world.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• List of Illustrations (p. ix)
• Foreword (p. xiii)
• Introduction (p. 1)
• 1 Archie, Regy, Loulou and Bill (p. 17)
• 2 The Mystery of Edwin Montagu (p. 62)
• 3 Mr B. and Mr C. (p. 70)
• 4 Imperialists (p. 95)
• 5 Sam and Phil (p. 118)
• 6 Bob and Tom (p. 135)
• 7 Chips and X.-B. (p. 149)
• 8 Harold and Hinch (p. 160)
• 9 Casualties of War (p. 169)
• 10 Belisha and Boyle (p. 183)
• 11 Wolfenden Blues (p. 200)
• 12 Teddy Boy (p. 215)
• 13 The Dear Love of Comrades (p. 224)
• 14 Tony and Roy (p. 241)
• 15 A Straight Choice (p. 255)
• 16 Jeremy and Norman (p. 260)
• 17 Polly and Mandy (p. 271)
• Epilogue (p. 286)
• Notes (p. 299)
• Index (p. 310)