Allowing churches to opt-in to equal marriage a welcome step forward – Gilbert
December 7, 2012 5:54 PM
Originally published by East Midlands Liberal Democrats
Originally published by East Midlands Liberal Democrats
Commenting on the news that legislation to allow equal marriage will also give churches the option to conduct ceremonies for same-sex couples, long standing campaigner for equal marriage and Liberal Democrat MP for St Austell and Newquay, Stephen Gilbert said:
"It's very welcome news that churches which would like to conduct ceremonies for same-sex couples will be allowed to under the Coalition's proposals.
"The important point is that it will be for churches to decide and no church will have to do anything they don't want to.
"Liberal Democrats have long fought for equal marriage and now we're in government we're committed to making it happen.
"Love is the same, straight or gay, so the civil institution should be the same too. Widening equal marriage to allow churches to opt-in is a very positive step forward."
Stephen Gilbert proposed the 2010 Liberal Democrat Autumn Conference policy motion for equal marriage which was adopted by the Party.