The freedom to enjoy consensual adult SM for sexual pleasure is a complicated topic that superficially contradicts many received ideas about freedom and liberty.
"In December 1990, 16 gay men were given prison sentences of up to four and a half years or fined for engaging in consensual SM activity ... The convictions have now been upheld by both the Court of Appeal and by the Law Lords." - SMGAYS Resource Book 2
The judgement delivered in the "Spanner" case has not been overturned, but has not been followed in cases concerning heterosexual married couples.
Thus consensual gay adult SM activity for sexual pleasure is still illegal if it results in injury that is more than "transient or trifling".
Consent is no defence.
March 2006 These laws have not been repealed. Prosecutions are under way on this basis.
The Spanner Trust and other organisations are campaigning for change. They need our support. Join The Spanner Trust Mailing list.
If you are convicted of a criminal offence you could loose your job and go to jail.
Campaign for change but don't break the law!
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