Anti-gay cake makers lose appeal

Ashers Baking Company refused to bake a cake with a slogan promoting gay marriage in 2014 (ITV)
Ashers Baking Company refused to bake a cake with a slogan promoting gay marriage in 2014 (ITV)

A Northern Ireland bakery which sparked outrage for refusing to bake a cake iced with the slogan "Support Gay Marriage" have lost their appeal against a ruling that found them guilty of discrimination.

The Christian family-run business Ashers Baking Company refused to bake the pro-gay cake after a customer requested it in 2014.

The Court of Appeal upheld a previous judgement that bakers are not allowed to discriminate on the grounds of sexual orientation, ITV reports.

Daniel McArthur, the bakery's general manager, said baking that cake would have been against their religious beliefs. He wants the law changed.

"We have always said, and say again today, that whilst we are unwilling to endorse a view that goes against our conscience, we will continue to happily serve anyone who comes through our doors - whatever their background, lifestyle, or beliefs," he said.

"This has never been about the customer. It has always been about a message promoting a cause that contradicts the clear teaching of the Bible on marriage.

A message promoting a cause with which I and my family fundamentally disagree."

Despite the criticism, many supported the bakery's stance.

Star Trek actor Sir Patrick Stewart even said he would support their right to say no.

"I would support their rights to say, 'No, this is personally offensive to my beliefs," he said in 2015.

Sir Patrick Stewart backs anti-gay cake bakers

Newshub.