David Campanale sues Liberal Democrats for religious discrimination

David Campanale, a former BBC journalist and Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate, is seeking over £788,000 (approximately $1.07 million) in damages following claims of religious discrimination. The civil case, heard at the County Court at Central London, alleges that Campanale was targeted due to his Christian faith.

The Liberal Democrats admitted to discriminating against Campanale, both directly and indirectly, under the Equality Act and acknowledged failing to properly manage his complaints. Campanale alleges that party activists mocked his faith and organized a campaign to remove him from his candidacy for Sutton and Cheam, which occurred in August 2023.

The requested compensation covers lost past and future earnings, aggravated damages, counseling costs, a lawmaker’s pension, and what the filing describes as ‘lost political capital’. In response, the Liberal Democrats have characterized the claim as ‘grossly inflated and egregious’, valuing the damages at approximately £22,800.