I wonder if the need for the Tory Party to go for gay equality There may be the need, but it won't happen easily. The tory stance of homosexuality seems to have become a matter of principle, like keeping the pound. I think the tories will have a real problem in finding a suitable leader. I don't think the homosexual past of Portillo will be an issue at all, except in so far as it will never ever be mentioned.
Redwood is seen as an extremist, even among that lot.
As for Widdecombe. If the tories want to gain electoral ground, they can't move to the left, because Labour's in the way, so they'll have to develop a more cuddly image instead. Ann Widdecombe is many things, but she ain't cuddly. I suppose he stands the best chance, for the same reason John Major was chosen over Douglas Hurd and Michael Heseltine. The others have severe image problems, and Clarke doesn't.