14 May 2010

Liberty today confirmed that it is acting for Michael Black and John Morgan, the gay couple refused accommodation at a Berkshire Bed and Breakfast in March of this year.

The couple, who booked by email and paid a deposit, were turned away by the owners when they arrived at the B&B. Despite protestations from Mr Black that this could be unlawful discrimination, the owners refused to allow the couple to stay as it was 'against their convictions'.

James Welch, Legal Director of Liberty, said:

"This case is as important to the principle of non-discrimination as Rosa Parks' refusal to go to the back of the bus. A business with a "no gays policy" is as bad as one that says "no blacks; no Irish". Liberty defends the rights of religious groups to preach their beliefs, even when we disagree with them, but not to discriminate in the provision of goods and services."

The Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2007 made it unlawful for public authorities and other service providers to discriminate on grounds of sexual orientation. The Regulations include exceptions for religious organisations.

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