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12/12/2012
Scotland Gay Marriage Consultation Begins
A consultation has begun today on a draft bill to introduce gay marriage in Scotland.
The plans have received cross party support in the Scottish Parliament.
The consultation will investigate views on the legislation.
The new law will cover the introduction of same sex marriage as well as protections in relation to religious bodies and celebrants, freedom of speech and education.
The Bill states that the introduction of same sex marriage should have no impact on existing rights to freedom of speech.
Health Secretary Alex Neil said: "We are introducing same sex marriage in Scotland because it is the right thing to do.
"We are striving to create a Scotland that is free, tolerant and fair and I am pleased to say there is support across the chamber for this significant step.
"I am absolutely clear that this should not impact on religious freedom and no religious body will be compelled to solemnise same sex marriages. Religious bodies who wish to solemnise same sex marriage will have to opt in.
"Where a body does decide to solemnise same sex marriages, we will also protect individual celebrants who consider such ceremonies to be contrary to their faith."
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie MSP said: "This Bill represents a proud step forwards for equality in Scotland. Equal marriage is the right and natural step towards the modern, tolerant and progressive Scotland we all want to see.
"These reasonable changes are about removing barriers and extending freedoms. It will extend the rights of same-sex couples whilst retaining the freedom of religious groups who do not wish to conduct same sex marriages. Scottish Liberal Democrats look forward to working with the Scottish Government on this historic bill."
The closing date for the consultation is Wednesday, 20 March 2013.
(IT)
The plans have received cross party support in the Scottish Parliament.
The consultation will investigate views on the legislation.
The new law will cover the introduction of same sex marriage as well as protections in relation to religious bodies and celebrants, freedom of speech and education.
The Bill states that the introduction of same sex marriage should have no impact on existing rights to freedom of speech.
Health Secretary Alex Neil said: "We are introducing same sex marriage in Scotland because it is the right thing to do.
"We are striving to create a Scotland that is free, tolerant and fair and I am pleased to say there is support across the chamber for this significant step.
"I am absolutely clear that this should not impact on religious freedom and no religious body will be compelled to solemnise same sex marriages. Religious bodies who wish to solemnise same sex marriage will have to opt in.
"Where a body does decide to solemnise same sex marriages, we will also protect individual celebrants who consider such ceremonies to be contrary to their faith."
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie MSP said: "This Bill represents a proud step forwards for equality in Scotland. Equal marriage is the right and natural step towards the modern, tolerant and progressive Scotland we all want to see.
"These reasonable changes are about removing barriers and extending freedoms. It will extend the rights of same-sex couples whilst retaining the freedom of religious groups who do not wish to conduct same sex marriages. Scottish Liberal Democrats look forward to working with the Scottish Government on this historic bill."
The closing date for the consultation is Wednesday, 20 March 2013.
(IT)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
