Scotland to Bring in Equal Marriage

Following an announcement from the Scottish Parliament, Scotland could be the first part of the UK to introduce same-sex marriage. 

Scottish ministers have confirmed they will bring forward a bill on the issue.

Political leaders, equality groups and others support gay marriage, but it is strongly opposed by the Catholic Church and Church of Scotland.

The announcement was made following a government consultation which produced a massive 80,000 responses.

Same-sex couples in Scotland currently have the option to enter into civil partnerships and the Holyrood government has insisted no part of the religious community would be forced to hold same-sex weddings in churches.

Despite opposition by the big religions, faith groups, including the United Reformed Church, the Quakers, Buddhists and the Pagan Federation back gay marriage.