The Liberal Democrats have initiated a discreet review into the treatment of members with religious beliefs amid ongoing legal action alleging discrimination within the party. This move follows the revelation that David Campanale, a former BBC journalist and erstwhile party candidate, is pursuing nearly £790,000 in damages after the party acknowledged direct and indirect discrimination based on religion or belief, as well as shortcomings in handling complaints related to his treatment.

Campanale was selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate for the Sutton and Cheam constituency in 2021 but was removed from the list in 2023. He contends that the party’s actions, rooted in religious discrimination against his Christian faith, effectively ended his political career. The party has refrained from commenting on the specifics of ongoing court proceedings.

In response to the allegations, former party leader Tim Farron and former deputy leader Simon Hughes have publicly called for an apology from the Liberal Democrats and the establishment of an independent inquiry into Campanale’s case. Hughes has also indicated plans to pursue a separate investigation into the matter once the legal process concludes.

To address broader concerns regarding faith-based discrimination, the party has appointed Lord Richard Newby, former leader of the Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords, to lead an inclusion and faith review. This internal inquiry will examine how the party treats candidates and members across different religious backgrounds, as well as those without religious affiliation. Although the review has not been formally announced, it is understood within party leadership circles to be a direct response to Campanale’s case, reflecting a desire to demonstrate serious engagement with the issue.

At the party’s recent conference, discussions on topics such as Christian nationalism and the political role of religion were included in the fringe programme. The Liberal Democrats have previously described themselves as inclusive of people of all faiths and none, including many Christians, but have declined further comment on the ongoing dispute.