The publication of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill is another historic step towards true equality for the UK. When it comes to discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, we have come a long way in recent years – this legislation represents the natural culmination of that progress. Marriage is one of the most significant celebrations of love and commitment to another. It’s quite right that it finally be opened up to everyone, regardless of their sexuality.
As the Bill confirms, claims and fears about the impact on religious denominations’ freedom to express religious views are completely without foundation. Adequate legal protection has been included in the legislation’s provisions to ensure that no religious body or faith minister will be forced to conduct same-sex marriages. And Article 9 of both the European Convention on Human Rights and the Human Rights Act 1998 will add further protection for religious organisations, alongside the Bill’s legal safeguards.
We have a proud human rights framework in this country – one protecting both equality and freedom of religion. That’s now being extended to allow those faith groups wishing to do so to conduct and celebrate gay marriage, which is hugely encouraging.
The Bill will
have its second reading in the House of
Commons on February 5. Liberty hopes that politicians across the
spectrum recognise the momentous opportunity this legislation provides – and
vote in favour of religious freedom
and true equality.
