Richard expressed his beliefs in late 2014, after hearing an adoption case. Richard could not agree with his fellow magistrates that placing a child into the care of a same-sex couple was ‘in the child’s best interest’.
He was then reported, reprimanded, and forced to attend ‘re-education training’.
In March last year, Richard spoke on a national television programme, stating that there was insufficient evidence to convince him that placing a child in the care of a same sex couple was in the child’s best interests.
Following his media comments, an investigation was carried out by a disciplinary panel, and he was eventually removed from office by the Lord Chief Justice and the Lord Chancellor.
Richard is appealing the decision to the Judicial Appointments Conduct Ombudsman, Sir John Brigstocke, and is suing the Lord Chancellor. He is being supported in his actions by the Christian Legal Centre. |
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