Salmond paves way for same-sex marriages
Tuesday 04 September 2012
Printable
EmailScotland's First Minister Alex Salmond pushed forward plans to legalise same-sex marriage today after he announced details of the Scottish government's new legislative programme.
He also pledged that an independence referendum Bill would be at the heart of the SNP administration's agenda, planning for a vote to be held in autumn 2014. However, much of the detail has still to be worked out.
Negotiations on the process surrounding the vote are continuing between the Scottish and Westminster governments.
Mr Salmond said there would be a "conscience" vote in the Parliament over the Marriage and Civil Partnership Bill, where MSPs will be able to vote freely. He insisted no part of the religious community would be forced to hold same-sex weddings in churches.
The government will bring forward 15 Bills in all.
If you appreciated this article then please consider donating to the Morning Star's Fighting Fund to ensure we can keep developing your paper.
Editorial
Guard against sectarian hate
Communities across Britain should be on guard against the efforts of troublemakers to set us against each other in the wake of the sickening butchery of soldier Lee Rigby in Woolwich.
Features
Our government has put us at risk
Attacks such as yesterday's horrific murder in Woolwich didn't happen before the 'war on terror.' It's time we recognised the consequences of the conflicts we've unleashed
Barclays' dodgy deals hit the headlines
Why the US Department of Justice and the Serious Fraud Office are investigating the bank's deals in the Middle East