London Assembly passes motion in support of equal marriage
The London Assembly has become the latest local body in England to throw its weight behind the government’s plan to legalise civil marriage for same-sex couples.
A motion was passed by the assembly earlier today which urged for the coalition’s plans to become “a reality”.
Lib Dem Assembly Member Caroline Pidgeon, who proposed the motion, said: “I am delighted that the government is moving to introduce same-sex marriages. This is quite simply a question of equality for all and an issue that has overwhelming public support.
She added: “As the Olympic and Paralympic Games have just shown London is a tolerant and inclusive city, it is high time lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people living in our city had the same rights to marry as any other Londoner.”
Labour AM Tom Copley, who seconded the motion, said: “Our society has moved a long way towards greater tolerance and acceptance since I first came out as gay 11 years ago when same-sex marriages seemed a distant prospect.
He went on: “But that progress does not mean the challenge of achieving full equality has been met.
“Some people say same-sex marriage isn’t important because the right to a civil partnership already exists but this is not about practicalities, the right to marry the partner of your choice is about equality and respect.
Mr Copley concluded: “Legalising same-sex marriage will help us build a more tolerant society.”
