American censors have been accused of ‘outrageous homophobia’ over the age rating of film ‘Pride’.

The film, about the true story of a group of gay activists who raised funds to assist miners during the 1984 strike, has been categorised as unfit for people aged under 17 in the US.

In the UK the BBFC rated the film at 15, attributing the rating to “occasional strong language”, and some scenes with sexual references. One shows “men in a gay club wearing ‘bondage’ clothing”.

But the Motion Picture Association of America has failed to explain the higher rating.

Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell said: “It is outrageous, knee-jerk homophobia.

“There’s no significant sex or violence in Pride to justify strong ratings. The American classification board seems to automatically view any film with even the mildest gay content as unfit for people under 17.”