British government to legalize same-sex marriage
LONDON (AP) - The British government says it will introduce a bill next year legalizing gay marriage - but banning the Church of England from conducting same-sex ceremonies.
Equalities minister Maria Miller said Tuesday the bill will authorize same sex civil unions, as well as religious marriages if religions decide to "opt in." But she says the legislation will make it unlawful for the Church of England and the Church of Wales - the established churches in those countries - to conduct gay weddings.
Since 2005, gay couples in Britain have been able to form civil partnerships, which carry the same legal status as marriage.
Plans to introduce same-sex marriage have been opposed by the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches.
Some religious groups, including Quakers, say they want to conduct same-sex ceremonies.
Equalities minister Maria Miller said Tuesday the bill will authorize same sex civil unions, as well as religious marriages if religions decide to "opt in." But she says the legislation will make it unlawful for the Church of England and the Church of Wales - the established churches in those countries - to conduct gay weddings.
Since 2005, gay couples in Britain have been able to form civil partnerships, which carry the same legal status as marriage.
Plans to introduce same-sex marriage have been opposed by the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches.
Some religious groups, including Quakers, say they want to conduct same-sex ceremonies.
I'm glad to read this. Â Interesting that the bill legalizes same-sex marriage but active bans the C of E and the C of W to perform them. Â I'm wondering if this was the compromise they had to write to get the church not to oppose it? Â Regardless, it's another step forward! Â Hurrah!
Well, that's the end of England. Next thing you know, they'll get socialized medicine. Or decent schools. Or they won't spend a third of their budget on the military. You hate to see it happen...
Cheers!
Way to coexist England. Too bad many in this country don't feel the same way.
Henry VIII just wanted a divorce, now he can play tummy sticks in the church house. The Devil's deception is grand!
 @BREAKING NEWS !!! "The Devil's deception is grand!"
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Indeed it is!  I'm glad I was able to walk away from katholic faith relatively unscathed.
This story just warms my heart.The world is finally comming around. When my niece came out it was a proud day for our family, and the gay community embraced her with open arms. Their openess and tolerance of others is at times overwelming. Some of my best friends are gay, and I want only the best for them. I hope soon, my niece will find a love in her life and marry.