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UK Wedding News

21/11/2013

Same-Sex Marriage Bill Endorsed

Legislation to introduce same-sex marriage in Scotland has been approved in principle by Parliament.

It was the first time MSPs voted on the controversial issue.

Following a debate and subsequent vote on the topic, the Marriage and Civil Partnership Bill was passed by 98 votes to 15, with five abstentions.

A majority of Minister have supported the move, arguing that it is the right thing to do, but the Church of Scotland and Catholic Church have voiced their opposition to the new law.

Under the new legislation, religious bodies would have to "opt in" to perform same-sex marriage ceremonies, and MSPs have insisted that none of the religious community would be forced to hold ceremonies if it went against their faith.

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Welcoming the endorsement, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing, Alex Neil, said: "In a country that aspires to be an equal and tolerant society, this is the right thing to do.

"It is encouraging we have secured the support of Parliament at stage one of the bill and that we have agreed the general principles.

"It is an important step on the journey, but we will continue to work closely with the Parliament as the bill goes forward.

"The Bill makes it clear that there is no duty to opt in to the new arrangements. And the Bill imposes no duty on any person who is an approved celebrant to solemnise same sex marriages or register civil partnerships.

"However, we will look carefully at issues raised by members in the parliament as we now move to stages two and three."

Same-sex couples in Scotland currently have the option to enter into civil partnerships, and it is thought, if the new legislation is passed, that the first gay marriage ceremonies could take place by the start of 2015.

(JP/MH)

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"Legislation to introduce same-sex marriage in Scotland has been approved in principle by Parliament."