A Government commitment to open up marriage to same-sex couples has taken an important step forward with the publication of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill.
The Bill will:
- enable same-sex couples to marry in civil ceremonies;
- ensure those religious organisations that wish to do so can opt in to conduct marriage ceremonies for same-sex couples; and
- protect those religious organisations that do not wish to marry same-sex couples from successful legal challenge.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and Minister for Women and Equalities Maria Miller 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.”
