Italian MPs support introduction of same-sex civil unions
Source: The Guardian/AFP
Italy’s parliament has backed the introduction of same-sex civil unions in a long-awaited decision that has been hailed as a civil rights landmark.
Before the approval by MPs on Wednesday, Italy had been the last major western country not to legally recognise same-sex relationships. However, the legislation was criticised for not providing full equality for gay couples, particularly in terms of adoption rights.
Politicians in the chamber of deputies, Italy’s lower house, voted 369-193 in favour of a vote of confidence in the government, making final approval of the disputed civil unions bill automatic. The bill was expected to be voted through later on Wednesday.
The Italian prime minister, Matteo Renzi, called the confidence vote to prevent potential last-minute blocking or delaying amendments by opponents of the legislation, who include rebels in his Democratic party as well as the Catholic right.
Read more: http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/may/11/italy-mps-support-introduction-same-sex-civil-unions
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