The leaders of Scotland’s opposition parties have today united to voice their support for same-sex marriage in a move that will encourage the Scottish Government to move forward with legislation.
Johann Lamont MSP, Ruth Davidson MSP, Willie Rennie MSP and Patrick Harvie MSP jointly signed the Equality Network’s Equal Marriage Pledge this afternoon, committing themselves to supporting the Scottish charity’s high-profile campaign to lift the ban on same-sex marriage in Scotland.
Following the move, over 400 people gathered in support of same-sex marriage at an Equality Network reception in the Scottish Parliament.
The event, the biggest since the parliament was established, was hosted by leading MSPs from all five parties and was attended by guests including leading politicians, faith leaders, same-sex couples, trade unionists, and youth and student representatives.
Tom French, Policy Coordinator for the Equality Network, said: “We are delighted that leading politicians from across the political spectrum have united for Equal Marriage. We know that a majority of Scots back full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, as highlighted by the huge turnout at tonight’s reception.
“We agree with Alex Salmond’s ambition to make Scotland a progressive beacon. The principles of equality, and freedom of religion, are surely integral to that. With the support of all opposition leaders, and a clear majority of the public, the Scottish Government now have all the backing they need to move forward with legislation.”
Johann Lamont MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, said: "I am delighted to support the Equality Network and their campaign. As someone committed to creating a fairer, safer and more equal society, free from discrimination and bigotry, I am proud of Labour’s action in government to tackle discrimination against LGBT people and in legislating to create civil partnerships. I believe that the public witness and celebration of same-sex relationships afforded by civil partnerships and the legal rights created have played an important role in changing attitudes to LGBT people. I support the campaign for Equal Marriage and legislation which would allow religious bodies to conduct same-sex marriages should they wish to do so.”
Ruth Davidson MSP, Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, said; “I support the Equality Network’s Equal Marriage campaign. It seeks a more equal society while recognising that religious organisations which do not wish to carry out ceremonies should not be compelled to do so. The Scottish Government will bring forward legislation on gay marriage in this parliament and I want to ensure we have a workable way of advancing this issue for the people of Scotland.”
Willie Rennie MSP, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, said; “I want Scotland to be one of the most fair and progressive places in the world. Extending marriage equality to all is a really important part of that. The Equality Network should be congratulated on the fantastic job they have done highlighting the importance of this campaign. I am looking forward to working constructively with the all the groups involved who want to see this change in Scotland as we enter the next stage of the debate."
Patrick Harvie MSP, Leader of the Scottish Green Party, said; “It’s really encouraging to see so much support for Equal Marriage both inside Parliament and outside, and all that’s needed is for the Government to come forward with the legislation. I’m convinced that when MSPs have the chance to vote on this, Scotland will once again set the pace of change for the rest of the UK by backing equality for same-sex couples. This is a vital signal about the kind of progressive society that Scotland wants to be in the 21st century.”
In April, First Minister Alex Salmond, announced his personal support for same-sex marriage; “If a denomination is prepared to accept gay marriage then I’m in favour of it, yes. My personal feeling would be to tend towards it.”
The Scottish Government public consultation on same-sex marriage closed on the 9 Dec, attracting over 50,000 responses. The consultation responses are currently being analysed and the Government is expected to make a decision on whether to take forward legislation soon.
Opinion polls suggest a majority of Scots support equal marriage, including the Scottish Social Attitudes Survey 2010 which indicated 61% support versus 19% opposition. This included a majority of respondents following all the major faiths and political parties in Scotland.
