Analysis: Gay marriage - a divisive proposal?

The Scottish Government is consulting on the prospect of introducing same-sex marriage in Scotland, but the issue has already provoked controversy.

Gay couples can enjoy the same legal rights as married couples through civil partnerships, but the marriage ban has prompted claims they effectively have a second-class relationship.

Nationalist MSP John Mason tabled a motion in the Scottish Parliament stating that no person or organisation should be forced to be involved in or to approve of same-sex marriage. The motion was backed by three other SNP MSPs.

But it prompted an angry response from SNP MEP Alyn Smith, himself gay, who condemned their actions.

“What is in the small, mean, angry heads of bigots is a matter for them,” he wrote in a newspaper. I have never asked for their approval, but I demand equality.”

Episcopalian former Bishop of Edinburgh Richard Holloway, pictured, was among a group of religious leaders who publicly backed the change and warned that the current ban is an “intolerable intrusion” into public freedom. The group, representing “disparate” organisations, insisted there is no “single Christian or religious view” on the issue.