The "deeply offensive" Section 28 rules will be tackled, a government minister has pledged.

Barbara Roche, the social exclusion minister, used an online webchat to defend the government's record on gender discrimination and hit out at the controversial Section 28.

Roche said that the government remained committed to replacing Section 28 - the controversial law that stops local authorities "promoting" homosexuality.

"I believe that Section 28 is deeply offensive and government has a manifesto commitment to deal with this," said Roche.

The controversial law in the Local Government Act 1988 forbids the promotion of homosexuality by local authorities.

If the government presses ahead with a repeal of Section 28 it is likely to highlight divisions in the Conservative shadow cabinet.

Taking questions from the public live on the Labour Party website on Sunday, Roche defended the government's record on equality.

She said the government had already moved to tackle pay disparities and bring more women into politics.

She pointed to legislation passed by the government that allows parties to choose candidates from all-female shortlists.

"I also hope that we will see the selection of black and minority ethnic women candidates in the process," she said.

Asked what advice she would give to aspiring female politicians, Roche said it was important to be prepared to ask for help.

"There are many people out there both men and women who will be very willing to help. Don't worry about making mistakes - that's part of the learning process."

Tackling the gender pay gap, Roche added, was one of her key priorities.

"We have funded the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) and trade unions to do work in this field. We have also set up Fair Pay Champions to drive the fair pay agenda in their sector," she said.

She also said she had helped found that Labour Women's Network after the 1987 general election, which aimed to give Labour women "practical advice, help and support".

Roche added: "Final bit of information: don't give up and don't lose your sense of humour!"