Mr. ROTHAUS: I think that if somebody is gay and, you know, is living with a partner or has a partner or had a partner or, you know, is known gay socially, that - if that person then votes in what's considered to be anti-gay legislation, that it's appropriate to bring this up.

NPR: Media Often Remain Mum on Politicians' Sexuality

The application could also be considered by a planning committee - as is the case in the current planning process - if the council deemed it appropriate, he added.

BBC: Eric Pickles amends home extension plans