U.K. government to introduce gay marriages legislation bill

This article was last updated on April 16, 2022

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U.K. government has set to introduce gay marriages legislation bill on Friday that will enable gay couples in civil partnerships to ‘convert’ them into marriages.

 In the published bill, the government will give Conservative MPs a free vote on the legislation when it is debated in the Commons on Tuesday 5 February, meaning they will face no consequences if they decide to challenge government policy.

More than 100 Tory MPs viewed to be opposing the idea, but the bill is likely to pass through the Commons with the majority support of Labour and Liberal Democrat MPs.

Maria Miller, Culture Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities has presented the bill and said:

“Marriage is a hugely important institution in this country – one which has changed throughout our history, and continues to change.

“The values of marriage bind families and communities together and bring stability. I believe that couples should not be excluded from marriage just because they love someone of the same sex. In opening up marriage to same-sex couples, we will further strengthen the importance of marriage in our society.  

“Our proposals recognise, respect and value the very important role that faith plays in our lives. I have always been crystal clear that I would not put forward any legislation that did not provide protection for religious organisations. This Bill protects and promotes religious freedom, so that all religious organisations can act according to their doctrines and beliefs.”

As a number of churches are against same sex marriages, the legislation allows them to keep their stance without falling foul of the law (until the time they wish to change their approach). This would ultimately mean that the Church of England and the Church in Wales will have unique legal status on the issue. Provisions have also been made to ensure so that the clash between Anglican Canon law and the new legislation can be avoided.

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