A Russian judge has banned the setting up of an Olympic house for gay athletes competing at the Sochi 2014 Winter Games stating that it would “contradict the basics of public morality”.

Pride House was to be a venue for conferences and events during the Games but judge Svetlana Mordovina ruled that “the activities of the movement leads to propaganda of non-traditional sexual orientation”. It could lead to a decrease in population, she said.

The news follows an announcement that London will have its own Pride House during London 2012, based on Clapham Common and supported by London & Partners.

The initiative is being led by Canadian-born Chad Molleken, following the success of Pride House Vancouver and Pride House Whistler at the 2010 Winter Olympics, which attracted thousands.

“Pride House will welcome athletes, dignitaries, media, Londoners and visitors from around the world with a dynamic and entertaining programme in support of the LGBT community,” said Molleken.

Pictured: Pride House Whistler