Elton John - Sir Elton Calls For End To Aids Stigma

The pop superstar lashed out against the "disgusting stigma" surrounding Hiv/Aids patients and reminded the crowd that the illness is a "worldwide disease" as he spoke at the Sydney Opera House to mark World Aids Day.

He told the audience, "If we can de-stigmatise this disease once and for all, we are really going to beat this disease. This is not a f**gots' disease anymore. This is a worldwide disease that affects everybody.

"Let's get rid of this disgusting stigma and get these people who are such fascists, such idiots, to understand that people have a right to live with dignity."

The Rocket Man also called on government leaders around the globe to increase funding to help the fight.

The singer added, "We've got this disease really by the scruff of the neck. But we cannot loosen that grip we have on it. If governments start backing out and stop funding, then the epidemic will start to balloon again.

"We can't let go now, it's imperative we seize this opportunity where the end is maybe in sight, to keep going. We need the backing and confirmation of global governments to say once and for all let's get rid of this disease when we have the chance to. And we do have the chance."