Lib Dems launch faith inclusion review after candidate's discrimination claim

The Liberal Democrats have quietly established an internal review into how the party handles members with religious views, following a significant religious discrimination claim brought by a former candidate. The review, chaired by Lord Newby, aims to examine the inclusivity of the party's processes for candidates and members of various faiths and those without.

The inquiry was set up in direct response to a civil case filed by David Campanale, who was the party's candidate for Sutton and Cheam until his removal in August 2023. Campanale, a former BBC journalist, alleges that discrimination against his Christianity cost him his political career. The Guardian previously reported that the party admitted direct and indirect discrimination and failures in handling complaints related to his treatment, with Campanale seeking nearly £790,000 in damages.

Former party leaders Tim Farron and Simon Hughes had called for an independent inquiry and an apology. While the party cannot comment on ongoing legal proceedings, the Newby review is intended to address the broader question of religious discrimination within the party. Simon Hughes stated that he will pursue a separate investigation once Campanale's case is resolved, emphasizing that the Newby review is not directly about Campanale's specific legal situation.

The review, announced to party members via email from leader Ed Davey and president Josh Babarinde, will scrutinize candidate approval and selection processes, support for candidates, and the operation of complaints and disciplinary procedures. Some party sources have criticized the review, suggesting it lacks remorse and contrition towards those affected, and may be a tactic to impress the court. Concerns have also been raised about the review's scope, particularly regarding gender-critical beliefs, following a recent party conference motion that rejected official guidance on transgender issues.