Christian Democratic Party (CDP) candidate, hardline Christian and ardent opponent of gay marriage, Philip Langfield, has unexpectedly claimed “we have to accept scientists sometimes”.

Mr Langfield toed the Fred Nile Group’s party line, assuming medical advancements had proved cannabis had beneficial health properties in certain circumstances.

“It must be proven it's beneficial, otherwise we wouldn't be supporting it,” Mr Langfield said. 

“We, being a christian conservative party, would definitely want to see the proven medical benefit to suffering patients. 

“I certainly don't approve of drugs on the street, but this is medicine, it will only be used under medical supervision.”

Narrandera medical marijuana advocate Rach Cregan said the political tide had turned. 

“The news about the Christian Democratic Party shows there has to come a time where common sense prevails and fact is separated fact from fiction,” she said.

“People with late stage cancer often develop resistance to the synthetic drugs and medical marijuana can really benefit people.

“This news gives young children with epilepsy a little bit of hope, which is a great motivator for them to get well.

“There’s a great fear of alternative medicine, but it’s a gentle form of relief that works in harmony with our bodies.”

But Mr Langfield has not softened his stance on the definition of marriage, claiming gay nuptials would “change the foundation of our nation”. 

“Gay marriage would be a great curse on the nation, giving people the chance to close every church in the country,” he said.

“We have anti-discrimination laws that says if I turn someone away from the church because of their sexuality they can sue me, which has opened Pandora’s box.

“I have nothing against homosexuals, but they cannot produce a family.”