MSPs have given final approval to the Marriage and Civil Partnerships (Scotland) Bill with an overwhelming majority of MSPs saying ‘I Do’ to equality.
The Bill, passed by a majority of 87, will extend the legal form of marriage to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and permit religious denominations to celebrate such marriages should they wish.
Colin Macfarlane, Director, Stonewall Scotland said: ‘This a truly historic moment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Scotland. We’re delighted that MSPs have overwhelmingly demonstrated that they’re committed to building a Scotland fit for the 21st century.’
‘We’re also hugely grateful to the thousands of Stonewall supporters who have played a big part by contacting their MSPs to show their support. We’ll now be lobbying the Scottish Government to ensure that the first marriages take place in Scotland within months of the Act receiving Royal Assent.
During the Bill’s progress through Parliament, Stonewall Scotland and volunteers produced personalised briefings and speaking notes for MSPs. The charity gave evidence to the Equal Opportunities Committee and has attended and lobbied at every stage of the Bill’s progress.
For more information about Stonewall’s campaign for equal marriage visit www.stonewallscotland.org.uk/marriage
Photo By Kurt Löwenstein Educational Center International Team from Germany (qe07 (9)) [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
