Equality South West calls on South West MPs to back same-sex marriage
Equality South West (ESW) is calling on MPs in the region to back same-sex marriage when the issue returns to the House of Commons today.
The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill was approved in February, but an amendment has now been tabled that would enable heterosexual couples to enter into civil partnerships. This has been labelled a ‘wrecking amendment’ by Maria Miller, the Equalities minister, but supporters see it as an important final measure to ensure real equality for couples regardless of sexual orientation.
Brenda Weston from ESW said: "There are 28 times more LGBT people in the UK than there are members of the Conservative Party, so before MPs vote they would do well to remember they have been elected to represent all their constituents, not just their own party activists. They should also be aware that many men and women would want the option of a civil partnership rather than marriage.
"Some people argue that equal marriage devalues marriage, but that suggests a gay couple who want to marry aren't as serious about their relationship as a heterosexual couple. No-one gets married with the intention of breaking up – you can't predict what can happen down the line. Plenty of heterosexual marriages break down."
