Australian newsreader apologises for anti-gay remarks

A news anchor for Australian television network Channel Ten, has apologised after labelling this year’s Sydney Mardi Gras parade "disgusting".

Ron Wilson made the comments during an interview with Mardi Gras co-chair Peter Urmson on Monday.

He said: “Some of the spectacles you’re seeing, I’m assuming would even make you cringe. It becomes an exploitation almost of a sexual image rather than trying to explore the diversity of lifestyle.”

When Urmson replied by saying that “our community is extremely colourful,” Wilson said: “There’s a difference between colourful and disgusting.”

Later on in the interview, Wilson also questioned Urmson on the necessity of campaigning for same-sex marriage, saying: “There’s acceptance of the homosexual lifestyle. Why not let time take care of the gay marriage issue rather than pushing it?”

Following heavy criticism from viewers, Wilson gave an on-air apology on Tuesday, stating: “As a journalist, my job is to present an issue from different perspectives. But there is no question I could have chosen my words better. If anyone took offence at anything I said during the interview I apologise.

“I fully support the gay community in its campaign to promote the issue of gay marriage and I congratulate the gay and lesbian community on the success of Mardi Gras. Please take that with the utmost sincerity.”

Urmson accepted Wilson’s apology for his “highly subjective and damning comments,” and praised him for being “prepared to go on record, on a personal basis, stating his support for same-sex marriage.”


Simon Pollard
http://news.pinkpaper.com/australian