A former BBC journalist, who has filmed behind the Iron Curtain and exposed Russian incursions into Ukraine, is to pursue legal action as he faces being removed as a Liberal Democrat candidate over his Christian values.
In an interview with The Christian Institute, David Campanale spoke of the “direct harassment and hostility” he received from activists within the Sutton and Cheam Liberal Democrats constituency party who have pushed for his deselection.
The award-winning former journalist was appointed by “an overwhelming vote” in January, and intended to vote according to his conscience on non-whipped votes such as pro-life issues. But local party members told him “we do not recognise your right to have a conscience”.
Hostility
Mr Campanale told the Institute that claims he had hidden his Christian faith during the candidate selection process, could have been tested by “a quick online search”.
He explained how the accusations, first raised earlier this year, had been shown to be unfounded.
we do not recognise your right to have a conscience
The Government’s Equality Advisory and Support Service told lawyers for Mr Campanale that “it is likely” he has been “subject to harassment and potential victimisation” by anti-Christian activists.
‘Foundations’
He warned of a movement in Britain that wants to “undermine the Christian foundations of our constitution, that wants to remove all references to Christianity from the way in which our national life is guided and built.
“And it’s happening in education, we’re seeing cancel culture at work in universities, we’re seeing it in business, in the law and in schools. So I want to rally all people listening to this, step up, now is the time to engage.”
now is the time to engage
He said the “chilling effect, if they are able to get away with this, will be damaging for public institutions” before revealing that if the attempt to deselect him is successful he will appeal.
Censure
Earlier this year, the SNP censured one of its own MSPs for expressing pro-life views.
John Mason, MSP for Glasgow Shettleston, had tweeted that signs in Glasgow saying “women do regret abortion” were “very gentle and offering help”.
A letter leaked to the Daily Record revealed that party whips gave him a formal written warning in June, which will stay on record for 24 months, for such public remarks.
Church leaders launch declaration in defence of biblical sexual ethics
CofE report highlights ‘diversity’ of views on same-sex marriage
Over 2,000 Christian leaders urge US Senate to protect belief in traditional marriage