UK : Gay marriage: MPs back legislation

[dipsydoodle]

MPs have approved same-sex marriage in England and Wales in a key Commons vote, despite the opposition of dozens of Conservative MPs.

The Commons voted in favour of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill, by 400 to 175, a majority of 225, at the end of a full day's debate on the bill.

Prime Minister David Cameron has described the move as "an important step forward" that strengthens society.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-21346220

[struggle4progress]

1. Cameron Wins Vote on Gay Marriage, Splitting Tories

By Kitty Donaldson & Thomas Penny - Feb 5, 2013 3:22 PM ET

Prime Minister David Cameron won a vote to legalize gay marriage in England and Wales, putting his country in line with countries such as Spain and South Africa yet splitting his Tory party in the process.

Cameron only won the preliminary vote in the House of Commons in London tonight -- by 400 to 175 -- by relying on the support of his Liberal Democrat coalition partners and the opposition Labour Party, as more than 130 of his own lawmakers voted against the proposals. The bill, which would give same-sex partnerships equal status with heterosexual marriage, may face later defeat when it goes to the upper House of Lords or legal challenge from religious groups if it does become law.

For the premier, bringing the issue to the House of Commons had the effect of dividing his Conservative Party. About 70 lawmakers from both sides made speeches in the debate today, some citing religious concerns about the proposals, while a number of Tories expressed concern they were turning off the party’s socially conservative base ...

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-02-05/u-k-commons-backs-same-sex-marriage-bill-on-second-reading.html