April 29, 2010 - A Conservative candidate in the UK suspended on Tuesday for saying homosexuality was “not normal” has spoken in defence of his comments.

Philip Lardner, who was standing for election in North Ayrshire and Arran in Scotland, has also been suspended from his job as a primary school teacher.

He also said he would not encourage children to indulge in homosexuality and that churches should not be forced to hire practising homosexuals as clergy.

The comments were made by Mr Lardner on his campaign website, but have since been removed.

In the original posting, he wrote: “I will always support the rights of homosexuals to be treated within concepts of (common-sense) equality and respect, and defend their rights to choose to live the way they want in private, but I will not accept that their behaviour is ‘normal’ or encourage children to indulge in it.

“The promotion of homosexuality by public bodies (as per ‘clause 28'/section 2a in Scotland,) was correctly outlawed by Mrs Thatcher’s government. Toleration and understanding is one thing, but state-promotion of homosexuality is quite another.

“Why should Christian churches be forced by the government to employ homosexuals as ‘ministers’ against all that the Bible teaches? They are being forced by the government to betray their mission – would the Equality and Human Rights Commission be fined for refusing a job to Nick Griffin?

“Christians (and most of the population) believe homosexuality to be somewhere between ‘unfortunate’ and simply ‘wrong’ and they should not be penalised for politely saying so – good manners count too, of course.”

Mr Lardner added that the current law was wrong and “must be overturned” in the interests of freedom and Christian values.

He defended his comments on STV News and criticised Tory leader David Cameron for taking the decision to deselect him.

"David Cameron appears to be saying there is no place in the party for anyone with Christian beliefs," he said.

Mr Lardner said his views were "respectful and simple common sense".

He said: "I believe ordinary people are sick and tired of political correctness. This is still a broadly Christian country, and I believe parents should have the right to oppose the promotion of homosexuality in schools.

"By suspending me as a Tory, David Cameron appears to be saying there is no place in the Party for anyone with Christian beliefs.

“I’m still a candidate on ballot papers in North Ayrshire and Arran and if voters back my stand for free speech, I will become their independent Member of Parliament." by Jenna Lyle.