Same sex marriage in Scotland

The Scottish Parliament has voted overwhelmingly to pass the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Bill.

The Bill was introduced in the Scottish Parliament on 26th June 2013 and will introduce the following changes to marriage law in Scotland:

• the introduction of same-sex marriage,
• putting belief celebrants on the same footing as religious celebrants,
• the arrangements for authorising celebrants to solemnise opposite sex and same sex marriage,
• civil partnerships changing to marriage,
• the authorisation of Church of Scotland deacons to solemnise opposite sex marriage,
• allowing civil marriage ceremonies in any place agreed between the couple and the registrar, other than religious premises, and
• allowing married transgender people to obtain full gender recognition without a requirement to divorce.

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing Alex Neil described the passing of the Bill as a historic moment for equality in Scotland.

“I am proud that the Scottish Parliament has taken this progressive and hugely important decision in favour of equal rights in our country,” he said.

“It is right that same sex couples should be able to freely express their love and commitment to each other through getting married. Marriage is about love, and that has always been at the heart of this issue.”

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