While First Minister Peter Robinson was in London for a meeting with the Prime Minister, his wife’s statement was the basis for an unusual political storm back home.

Alliance executive director Gerry Lynch condemned Mrs Robinson’s comments: “Iris should learn that if she has nothing constructive to say, she should say nothing.”

He added: “The only things I see as abominations are the thugs who attacked Stephen Scott.

“Her remarks have overshadowed her husband’s appointment as First Minister. Her husband’s department is supposed to be in charge of equality for gay people.”

Ulster Unionist deputy leader Danny Kennedy urged Mrs Robinson to “quickly repair the damage done to Northern Ireland’s reputation” by her comments.

Mr Kennedy said: “Her comments would not be acceptable anywhere in mainstream British political life.

“I firmly believe that those in public office have a right to hold views on the basis of conscience and religious convictions but they also have a duty to promote equality and fairness for all.

“In light of Mrs Robinson’s standing as the wife of the First Minister – a fact which she made mention of during her reported comments – she has particular responsibilities in this regard.”

Condemning the attack that sparked the row, Alliance leader and Assemblyman David Ford said: “The fact that it was homophobic in nature makes it even worse.

“Nobody should ever be attacked and nobody should be attacked for their race, religion or sexual orientation.”

The attack, which happened on Wednesday night, left 27-year-old Stephen Scott seriously injured.

Three youths knocked him to the ground and punched and kicked him while shouting insults.

Mr Scott, who was treated for injuries to his head, leg and ribs, told the BBC: “It’s enough to take a life – there were three of them on me and I was left for dead.”

The Royal College of Psychiatrists also released a statement following the claims made by Mrs Robinson on radio.

The statement said: “In light of comments made on The Nolan Show, the Royal College of Psych-iatrists wishes to clarify that homosexuality is not a psychiatric disorder.”

Continuing, it noted: “In 1973 the American Psychiatric Association concluded there was no scientific evidence that homosexuality was a disorder and removed it from its diagnostic glossary of mental disorders.

“The International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organisation followed suit in 1992.”

A spokesman for Belfast’s Gay Pride march called on politicians and clergy to show “community leadership” in condemning the attack.