Ewan Smith-Wainwright, the openly gay Conservative candidate for Godshill and Wroxall in next week’s local elections, has spoken out regarding recent comments made by Andrew Turner about homosexuality being ‘wrong’ and ‘dangerous’.
As previously reported by Island Echo, Mr Turner has resigned as the Island’s MP following comments he made to a class of A-level politics students at Christ the King College.
Ewan has described Mr Turner’s remarks as abhorrent. In a statement issued yesterday, he said:
“It is deeply upsetting to hear such abhorrent remarks made by someone who is elected to represent the views of the island people.
“I would like to say as a young gay man I faced a lot of homophobia and discrimination growing up and it is deeply concerning that views like this are still being expressed in 2017, when I thought the world has moved on.
“I was particularly shocked as Andrew encouraged me to become an active member of the Conservative Party and we have campaigned together in my ward as I face my first election as a candidate.
“These views are not shared by me or any member of the Isle of Wight Conservative Group as it was the Conservative government that legalised same sex marriage. I would reject any comments that states that is the view of the Island Conservatives.
“I am so proud to be who I am and to hear that the Isle of Wight is hosting a LGBTQ pride event this year as I believe this is important to modern day society to show that people should express themselves as they feel comfortable.
Article continues below this advertisement “I am particularly concerned that these things were said to an A level politics class who were looking to their elected representative to give them a view on contemporary issues, where they should feel they are safe to ask questions about any subject.
“I would finish by saying I categorically reject these comments made and would encourage my generation to be proud of who they are and stand up tall.”
Councillor Chris Whitehouse, a close friend of Andrew’s added:
“Some time ago, after some noxious remarks by the now thankfully departed Charlotte Hofton, I pledged £500 to the Pride event. I stand personally by that pledge and fully endorse Ewan as one of our best candidates in these local government election.”
