Same sex marriage consultation comes to end

Published on 20/03/2013 06:36

The public consultation on same-sex marriage legislation will close later today.

The Scottish Government has been gathering views since December.

People have a final chance to contribute before the consultation on the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Bill closes at 5pm.

The Bill would legalise gay marriage, with religious and belief bodies required to opt in to perform same-sex marriages. It also contains provisions to protect freedom of speech and amend guidelines for teaching around the issue in schools.

Tom French, policy co-ordinator for the Equality Network, said: “With time running out, it is vital that we encourage people to speak up for LGBT equality by responding to the consultation on Scotland’s equal marriage Bill.

“Opponents of LGBT equality are running a very well-funded campaign to block same-sex marriage and roll back LGBT equality in other areas. If people want a progressive Bill that stands up for equality, it is crucial that they make their voice heard now.”

The Scotland for Marriage campaign, which opposes same-sex marriage, has spoken about its concerns.

Opponents of the Bill have called for parents to have the right to opt their children out of any lessons that mention same-sex relationships.

A previous consultation on whether to legislate on same-sex marriage produced a record 77,508 responses.

The Scottish Government will consider the submissions to the latest consultation and respond in due course, a spokesman said.