Lib Dem Motion to London Assembly Supports Equal Marriage

Caroline Pidgeon AM's motion to the London Assembly today threw its weight behind government proposals to allow same-sex couples to have civil marriage ceremonies. Building on the Assembly's long-standing record of support for equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, Members called for the introduction of legislation in parliament to make same-sex marriages a reality.

Caroline said: "I am delighted that the Government his moving to introduce same-sex marriages. This is quite simply a question of equality for all and an issue that has overwhelming public support. As the Olympic and Paralympic Games have just shown London is a tolerant and inclusive City, it is past time lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people living in our city had the same rights to marry as any other Londoner."

The motion was agreed with cross-party by 16 votes in favour at a meeting of the full London Assembly today. The debate is in the London Assembly webcast at approx 2:56. The full text of the motion reads as follows:

"This Assembly recognises the long standing record of many London Assembly Members to support equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

This Assembly further recognises the Mayor's recent declaration of support for the Out4Marriage campaign.

Recognising further that London has long been at the forefront of the national campaign for equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people this Assembly therefore firmly supports the current government's proposal to consult on how to enable same-sex couples to have a civil marriage and the subsequent introduction of legislation in this parliament to make this a reality."