SOUTHEND West general election candidates clashed over gay equality as they faced the public at a packed-out parliamentary hustings.

Almost 200 people came to the hustings at St Andrew’s Church in Southview Drive, which was organised by the Chalkwell Churches group.

The recent police investigation of a B&B owner who turned away a gay couple because it conflicted with his Christian beliefs sparked debate among the candidates.

Ukip candidate Garry Cockrill said: “Ukip would get rid of these equality laws which are no such thing.

“Christians are being discriminated against since this act has come to pass.”

Tory David Amess said: “I won’t get involved in this argument.

“If the law said it’s wrong than so be it.”

Labour candidate Tom Flynn accused him of “hiding behind the law” and not answering the question.

He, Lib Dem Peter Welch and Green Barry Bolton said that if you run a business you have to accept the law and treat all guests equally regardless of their sexuality, race or religion.

Chaired by baptist minister Ashley Lovett, the debate on Wednesday night was smoothly-organised with many questions from members of faith groups touching on issues of morality and ethics, plus concerns about discipline at schools and protecting the NHS.

But there were no questions on hot topics such as MPs’ expenses, immigration or the state of the economy.

Speaking about his record and the recent crisis engulfing parliament, Mr Amess said: “I’ve always been a community and constituency politician.

“Our country has been destroyed and our parliament has been destroyed.

“My position has been greatly diminished.”

He said that only a Tory government would bring about change.

A new MP with fresh ideas was needed for the constituency, according to Mr Flynn, who also spoke of Labour’s record in power.

Mr Welch said there was a “tremendous opportunity” for real change by voting Lib Dem for fairer taxes and schools.

Mr Bolton said we needed to change our attitudes to the environment for a more sustainable way of life, a fairer society and a better future.

Withdrawal from the EU so the country can reclaim the power to make its laws and the freedom of its people are UKIP’s policies, said Garry Cockrill.

Mr Lovett, the minister of Westcliff Baptist Church, said afterwards: “I was very pleased with the turnout and the support from the five candidates.

“And I was pleased with the conduct of the meeting.

“We covered a range of issues from both faith communities and the wider community.”