Former Liberal Democrat Candidate Seeks Damages for Religious Discrimination

David Campanale, a former Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate and journalist, is seeking approximately £789,000 in damages from the party following a legal dispute over religious discrimination. Campanale alleges that he faced a campaign of abuse and mockery from party activists due to his Christian faith, including being told by his successor, Luke Taylor, that there was no place for Christians in the "secular party." The Liberal Democrats have previously admitted to direct and indirect religious discrimination against Campanale.

The compensation claim, filed in the County Court at Central London, includes requests for lost earnings, pension contributions, counseling costs, and "lost political capital." The party has contested the amount, labeling the claim "grossly inflated and egregious." While the Liberal Democrats suggest a payment of roughly £22,800—primarily for injury to feelings—they argue that other categories of the claim, including loss of earnings and aggravated damages, should be valued at zero. The court is now tasked with determining the final settlement amount.