Christian candidate sues Lib Dems over deselection in court

David Campanale, a former BBC journalist, is suing the Liberal Democrats after being deselected as their candidate for Sutton and Cheam, claiming it was due to his Christian beliefs. The party has demanded that he prove the truth of his faith in court, which has raised concerns about the treatment of candidates with traditional religious views. Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, criticized the party, suggesting that it has become increasingly difficult for orthodox Christians, Muslims, or Jews to participate in its political framework. The legal dispute centers on whether Campanale's Christian beliefs are protected under the Equalities Act. His lawyer argues that they are, while the party's legal defense contends that he must substantiate his faith in a legal context. This situation has sparked a broader debate about the compatibility of socially conservative views with the Liberal Democrats' current policies, particularly on issues like abortion and same-sex marriage. Campanale is considering bringing in expert witnesses, including Dr. Williams and Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey, to support his claims. The party has acknowledged that local councillor Luke Taylor made statements indicating a shift away from the traditional Christian values represented by past leaders like Charles Kennedy and Baroness Shirley Williams. Critics of the party argue that this case highlights a growing disconnect between the Liberal Democrats and voters who hold traditional Christian values. The party has defended its actions, stating that Campanale's deselection was based on his treatment of local activists rather than his religious beliefs.