Letter: Not the right idea

The Conservatives, a broadly centre-right party, are beaten in English and Welsh elections by Labour, to their left. Their response? If media reporting is to be believed, the party is to move to the right, conceding ground to those who oppose same-sex marriage and Lords reform.

Marriage equality is supported by the majority across Britain, and by a very large majority of young people. Proper consultative processes are under way north and south of the Border to move towards legislation.

A political party which stands in the way of that progress will hardly be seen as a progressive or inspiring one.

At a time of economic trouble there are clearly important priorities for both government and legislators.

But both are, or should be, capable of dealing with a wide range of issues. Equality in marriage law is right and popular, and progress towards it should continue with the support of all parties.

Tim Hopkins

Equality Network

Bernard Street

Edinburgh