In her letter to David Cameron, Ms Eagle said: “We know you say that the Conservative Party’s history of opposing gay rights and supporting Section 28 has been left behind. But if your Party really cares about equality, then you must recognise the need not just to condemn views like this but to take action against people in your Party who display these beliefs.”

When contacted yesterday by the Daily Post, Cllr Knowles initially denied writing the comments and was surprised others could see his Facebook page, and insisted there is “a concerted effort to blacken my character”.

He said: “I have put nothing like that on my Facebook page.”

However, he later updated his Facebook page to say: “Hate the way things can be misconstrued by nasty people with an axe to grind.”

This was followed by a statement apologising. He said: “I would like to officially apologise for any offence I might have given to anyone with comments I have made on this site. I removed said comment as soon as I realised that I might have inadvertently upset someone.”

He then added: “As a trade unionist and member of the Labour party for over 30 years, I have never held views that could be construed as being homophobic.

“Having recently joined the Conservative Party, I am proud to say that I serve all of the people regardless of colour, creed, or sexual preferences.

“I am horrified that someone has hacked into my personal Facebook page and either misunderstood or misconstrued for political reasons, or otherwise, something that I have said in all innocence.”

Denis Knowles crossed the council chamber last May from Labour.

Last night, Tory group leader in Wirral Jeff Green said: “There is only one thing worse than making a mistake and that is not putting your hands up and admitting it.

“Cllr Knowles removed the comments and has apologised for any offence that has been caused.

“We have taken the additional step of suspending his membership of the party pending an investigation into his remarks. The Conservative Party has changed, and by this swift action we have demonstrated that change.”