Gay couples to be husbands and wives – officially

The Liberal Democrat Equalities Minister, Lynne Featherstone, wants to lift the ban on civil partnership ceremonies being held in places of worship. And the ceremonies would be allowed to contain some religious elements, like hymns or Bible readings.

The idea’s been welcomed by gay rights groups – but could provoke a furious backlash from traditionalists.

The change will also end the current definition of marriage as only being between a man and a woman. It will allow gay men to call their spouse ‘husband’ and married lesbians to call their spouse as ‘wife’.

Although civil partnerships have been legal since 2004, which provide almost the same legal rights as marriage, many gay couples have felt it to be a ‘second-class’ option, and this would be an important symbolic move.

However the move could provoke a row between some church groups and the government, as the Church of England has already said it won’t allow their churches to be used for gay marriages or civil partnerships.

However, before the arrangements can be implemented, ministers are required to hold a new consultation and to change the law on civil partnerships.

A Home Office spokesman said: “The government is currently considering what the next stage should be for civil partnerships, including how some religious organisations can allow same-sex couples to register their relationship in a religious setting if they wish to do so.

“Ministers have met a range of people and organisations to hear their views on this issue. An announcement will be made in due course.”

If the laws are passed, Britain will join a small international club that allows gay marriages. Other countries include Sweden, Netherlands, Spain, South Africa and Canada. It is also permitted in some American states.

The Liberal Democrats overwhelmingly voted moves for gay marriage at their annual conference last September, and the expected announcement will be seen as a major coalition victory for them.