Brampton Couple To Sue

17 May 2010, 11:16 | Updated: 17 May 2010, 11:27

A gay couple from Cambridgeshire are planning to sue the owners of a bed and breakfast who refused them accommodation because of their sexuality.

Michael Black and John Morgan, who live in Brampton, booked by email and paid a deposit to stay at the B and B in Berkshire in March.

However, on arrival they were turned away by the owners of the guest house.

Despite Mr Black arguing that the move could be classed as "unlawful discrimination", the owners continued to refuse to allow the couple to stay, saying it was "against their convictions".

Civil rights group Liberty is now acting on behalf of Mr Black and Mr Morgan in legel proceedings.

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."