Tim should have faced his critics

Sir, - What is the real reason for the resignation of Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron?

It was unacceptable that in the course of the election campaign he was hounded by some individuals to declare whether he thought homosexuality was a sin.

He was striving to become a member of the House of Commons, the legislature, not an ecclesiastical body.

His job is to protect the privacy and security of people of all faiths and sexual orientations not to pontificate about any aspect of their private behaviour.

However, the reason he gave for standing down was not very convincing.

Many politicians have been able to reconcile their religious beliefs with liberal, reforming measures.

Former Liberal Leader David Steel (now Lord Steel) had a strong Church of Scotland background yet was able, in the face of fierce controversy, to steer legislation on abortion through Parliament in the 1960s.

It did not have any lasting, negative impact on his political career.

He was able to show leadership, determination, patience and reforming zeal to get a measure on to the statute book.

He stood up, with courtesy, to the many critics of what he was proposing.

Although Mr Farron was treated unfairly, he ought to have had the strength of character to withstand the criticism he faced.

The fact that he could not, together with the lack of gravitas he showed in the run up to June 8, goes a long way to explain his resignation. Bob Taylor. 24 Shiel Court, Glenrothes.