Christian ‘gay cake’ bakery return to court to appeal discrimination ruling

The Christian-run bakery found guilty of discrimination in 2014 for refusing to make a cake with a pro-gay marriage slogan have insisted their appeal has implications for freedom of expression across the UK.

Ashers Baking Company in Belfast have returned to court today (May 9) in the hope of overturning the judgment which found they had acted unlawfully when declining the order placed by LGBT activist Gareth Lee as it “was at odds” with their beliefs.

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Daniel McArthur, the bakery’s general manager, said outside court today that he hopes the appeal judges would not require the company to “endorse a view that goes against our conscience”, U-TV reports.

“Two years ago today we were asked to help promote a campaign to redefine marriage in Northern Ireland,” he said.

“We never imagined that two years later we would find ourselves still living with the consequences of that request. We never imagined that the Equality Commission would try to force us to promote that campaign. Or that the County Court would agree with them.

“So we’re here again today, and we’re hoping this court will rule that we are not required to endorse a view that goes against our conscience.

“The Attorney General’s involvement confirms there are big issues at stake. This was never just a case about one little bakery in Belfast. It’s always had implications for freedom of expression throughout the UK.”

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In May 2014 the bakery agreed to pay damages of £500, as they had breached equality legislation and directly discriminated against Gareth Lee. The company has been backed legally and financially by the Christian Institute throughout their legal process.

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