Same-sex marriage law delay slammed

Jul 17 2012

Equality campaigners have hit out at the Scottish Government after it failed to announce a decision on same-sex marriage laws.

Controversial proposals to legalise gay marriage were discussed by ministers at a meeting of the cabinet in Edinburgh.

They said, however, that further examination was needed before a final decision on whether to bring forward legislation is reached.

The Government said a clear decision would be announced by the end of the month, as it ruled out a referendum on the issue.

The Equality Network and the Scottish Youth Parliament both expressed disappointment while Labour said the SNP had displayed weak leadership.

Ministers had already delayed making a decision from the spring, stating that they needed more time to consider the large number of responses to the public consultation on the issue.

The consultation, which ran from September to December last year, received 80,000 replies and ignited ongoing debate between gay rights supporters and the Catholic Church.

At the start of the consultation, the Government said it "tends towards the view" that same-sex marriage should be introduced, although faith groups and their celebrants should not be obliged to solemnise the ceremonies.

Tom French, policy co-ordinator for the Equality Network, said: "It is time the Scottish Government demonstrated its leadership on this issue and announced a decision.

"Same-sex marriage is supported by the majority of Scots and the majority of MSPs. The Government has had seven months to analyse the consultation responses and to deal with the detail. We cannot understand why there is any need for further delay."