Pubic transport
Sir: With reference to your report on gay sadomasochism (Public money tied up', 8 August), the author appears to have entire- ly missed the point of the training classes or their relevance to HIV infection for all sex- ualities. As a heterosexual sadomasochist and SM Pride supporter, I have attended several similar privately funded classes over the years organised by heterosexuals, bisex- uals or homosexuals. The classes have always been lively and thought-provoking. SM advice crosses all sexuality and gender boundaries. The gay guys tell me the best book on the subject is the lesbian one.
SM is undergoing a renaissance in Britain. It currently supports four pansexu- al, high-quality, glossy magazines, nine pan- sexual SM and fetish clubs in the London area alone and another 20 clubs in towns as diverse as Leeds, Folkestone and Weston- super-Mare. And then there are the clubs and bars for SM gays, SM dykes and SM bisexuals only. We estimate that more than one person in 25 is SM — that's more than two and a quarter million Britons.
Why the popularity? With the rise of HIV and Aids, people of all sexualities have realised that fetishism and SM is one of the safest ways to express your sexuality. If you like leather, PVC, rubber or uni- forms, fetishism is the best fun you can have and still keep your clothes on! There's more excitement, less penetrative sex, less risk of infection. In the long term, a pound or two spent on HIV prevention now equals £500 saved in caring for the sick or dying later. It is simply that cost-effective. Barry Slemmings
SM Pride Press Officer, PO Box 10937, London N15
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