Chris Grayling

The shadow Home Secretary Chris Grayling has apologised for saying that bed and breakfast owners should be able to turn away gay couples.

Talking on the BBC's Daily Politics Show, Mr Grayling said:
"I certainly regret causing confusion. But I was talking of the debates of some years ago...I have supported gay rights and will continue to do so."

Two recent Tory defectors cited Mr Grayling's comments as one of the reasons they decided to leave the party. And Mr Grayling's views led to protests by 400 gay rights activists outside Conservative Central Office.

Tory leader David Cameron has said that, in his opinion, this marks the end of the episode:
"Chris Grayling has apologised for what he said. It is all sorted."