Pope Francis’ newly appointed Spanish Cardinal has made claims that homosexuality is a “defect” that can be “cured”, it has been reported. Archbishop of Pamplona Fernando Sebastián, who will take his post as the Vatican’s newest cardinal in February, make his views known to Spanish newspaper “Diaro Sur”.

“Homosexuality is a defective manner of expressing sexuality, because [sex] has a structure and a purpose, which is procreation.

“A homosexual who can’t achieve this is failing,” he said.

Sebastián stated his comments were not intended to be an insult, but “helpful”. He also said it was “possible to recover and become normal with the right treatment.”

“Our bodies have many defects. I have high blood pressure.” he added.