The US senate has rejected an opportunity to scrap a controversial Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT) law that prevent gays and lesbians from openly serving in the military.

Only 56 senators – four short of the required number – voted to debate the Defense Authorisation Bill, which includes DADT.

Campaigners, including Lady Gaga, have argued that the policy, which was introduced in 1993, was “unjust”.

During a speech in Maine on Monday (September 20), the singer said that “equality is the prime rib of America”

Don't Ask, Don't Tell stipulates that military officers must not to question troops' personal relationships, as long as they keep their sexual orientation private.

President Barack Obama had promised to scrap the policy. Democrats will have another opportunity to vote on the bill later this year.

(by Jason Gregory)