Sir Keir Starmer has become the first sitting prime minister to make a public HIV test in an attempt to combat the stigma to test the virus.
The PM did a home test in Downing Street prior to the HIV test week, which starts today, alongside soul singer Beverley Knight.
About 107,000 people live with HIV in the UK, with around 4,700 thought that they are not aware of their status.
From 10-17 February, members of the public can order one of the 20,000 free, confidential, home research that offer a result in 15 minutes.
The prime minister said: 'It is really important to do it and I am really happy that I can do it. It is very easy, very fast. '
Sir Keir said that he was 'surprised' to hear that he was considered the first prime minister of a G7, European or NATO -Natation who took an HIV test.
He added: “Let's try to encourage other leaders to do the same because it is really important, it's easy, it's handy and it's much better to know.”
Richard Angell, Chief Executive of HIV Charity The Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “It is an important symbol for people who live with HIV, for fighting the stigma.”
Sir Keir Starmer has become the first sitting prime minister to take a public HIV test in an attempt to remove the stigma to test the virus
The PM did a home test in Downing Street prior to the HIV test week, which starts today, alongside soul singer Beverley Knight
Sir Keir was told by Richard Angell, Chief Executive of the Terrence Higgins Trust, which he was considered the first prime minister of a G7, European or NATO -Natation who took an HIV test test
Mr. Angell added: “And to let the public know that tests are free, confidential and easy and available to everyone during this week, and it will make a big difference.”
Sir Keir has promised to terminate new transmissions from HIV in England by 2030 and last year on World AIDS announced £ 27 million for an extensive test program in NHS -ADDREATS.
Mrs. Knight, who also demonstrated a test in Downing Street, said: 'Today living with HIV is a world away from the experience that my deceased best friend Tyrone has endured in the early 2000s.
'People who live with HIV can now easily know their status, have access to effective treatment and lead a long, healthy life.
“I wish this was the case for Ty. In his memory I use my voice next to the PM to make everyone aware of how easy it is to test.
“People must hear the crucial message that thanks to effective medication people who live with HIV cannot pass it on, so that we can end this epidemic once and for all.”
