Mayor distances himself from deputy's comments.

The Mayor of Hamilton today distanced himself of anti-homosexual comments made by his deputy.

According to the Royal Gazette Donal Smith launched a 'withering attack' on homosexuality on the Seventh Day Adventist TV show 'Issues'.

But Graeme Outerbridge said that Mr Smith's comments were his personal views and did not reflect the sentiments of the Corporation.

In a statement the Mayor said: “The statements attributed, in the daily newspaper, to Deputy Mayor Donal Smith are his own opinions and thoughts and in no way reflect the thinking and sentiments of the Council of the City of Hamilton.

"These comments were made during an interview on a religious television program. We respect everyone’s right to freedom of speech.”