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Controversial anti-gay politician who linked homosexuality to child abuse to run in London by-election

David Kurten said being gay isn't fixed at birth

By Steve Brown

UKIP have selected a controversial politician who linked homosexuality to child abuse to run in an upcoming by-election.

David Kurten – who is also a member of the London Assembly – will be standing for the seat in the Lewisham East by-election.

However, last year, the politician hit headlines after making a series of homophobic slurs and said being gay isn’t “fixed at birth”.

He said: “I believe that marriage is between one man and one woman. If there were a free vote in Parliament I would vote to restore this definition of marriage.

“The latest scientific studies show that incidence of homosexuality in adults decreases with age, so it is unlikely to be fixed at birth.

“Study after study also shows that the incidence of homosexuality is much higher among people who have been sexually abused as children.

“This is an issue which needs to be addressed but is not because of political correctness. Counselling involving parents should be offered on a one-to-one basis for children aged 13 to 16 who wish to discuss sexual orientation.”

Not only did he comment on homosexuality, he also said pharmacists should be allowed to refuse giving the morning after pill.

He said: “Reasonable accommodation should allow people to express support for traditional marriage without fear of penalty.

“Pharmacists should also be allowed to refrain from selling abortion pills; midwives and doctors should not have to perform abortions, and Catholic adoption agencies should be allowed to re-open and serve male/female married couples only.”