First gay marriage in Washington DC, UK next?
UK: Civil Marriage for Same-Sex Couples Proposed.
A public consultation considering how to make civil marriage available to same-sex couples will begin in March 2012. Launched by Lynne Featherstone, Minister for Equalities, this move would enable any legislative changes to come into effect before the end of the current parliament.
Lynne Featherstone MP announces government consultation on equal marriage
Hornsey and Wood Green MP Lynne Featherstone has this weekend announced that in March the government will start a formal consultation on how to implement equal marriage for same sex couples.
As part of its commitment to advancing equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGB and T) individuals, the government announced in February this year its intention to look at how legislation could develop on equal civil marriage.
The plans to get marriage equality for all were made into official Liberal Democrat policy at last year’s party conference.
Lynne Featherstone MP comments:
“I am delighted to confirm that, in March, the Government will begin a formal consultation on equal civil marriage for same-sex couples.
“This would allow us to make any legislative changes before the end of this Parliament.
“Civil partnerships were a welcome first step, but to deny one group of people the opportunities to get married is not only discrimination, it’s just not fair.
“This is Liberal Democrats delivering Liberal Democrat policy in Government, and I am proud to be taking this forward in the New Year.”