Vote due on historic bill in Scottish Parliament.

MSPs will tonight decide on the future of same sex marriage in Scotland, with Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing Alex Neil calling for colleagues from all parties to pass the bill into law.

Mr Neil said:

“There was overwhelming support for this bill when first debated in the parliament. Many MSPs from across the political spectrum spoke on this subject, and I was moved by the personal stories I heard from friends and colleagues around the chamber.

“It is right that same sex couples should be able to freely express their commitment to each other through getting married. We have always maintained at the heart of this issue there is one simple fact, a marriage is about love.

“All couples in Scotland in a loving relationship must know that they have the same rights and responsibilities, and regardless of their gender, the same opportunity to get married.

“Throughout this bill, we’ve taken account of those faiths who would not wish to take part in same sex marriage, and the Bill fully recognises and protects celebrants who do not wish to take part.

“Should the bill pass we’ll move swiftly to implement it, including working with the UK Government to ensure that the necessary amendments to Equalities legislation are in place in a timely fashion. I very much look forward to seeing the first same sex marriages taking place in Scotland as soon as is possible.

“I hope that our national parliament takes this opportunity to send a clear signal that our Scotland is a modern and progressive beacon for all, standing as passionate promoters and defenders of equality.

“I urge MSPs to pass this historic bill into law.”

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Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
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