As a gay man who suffered abuse from my father as a child, I am deeply offended by Councillor Willows's outburst saying gay men are paedophiles (The Argus, May 20).

Ten years ago my best friend, also gay, committed suicide after years struggling to come to terms with the horrific sexual abuse committed on him by his father.

Demonising gay men as paedophiles is not just offensive to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people as parents, teachers or youthworkers. It gives license to those who use violence to express their hate but, mostly, it lays a smokescreen for the majority of sexual abuse taking place within families.

Coun Willows may not agree with gay equality as supported by organisations such as Barnardos, NSPCC or Save the Children.

Maybe he would listen to the Scouts who say simply "There is no link between homosexuality and paedophilia".

If he had any integrity, he would resign immediately, as his views are incompatible with public office.

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