A UK Government announcement that it will conduct an inquiry into marriage equality early next year has been welcomed by Australian advocates who say it shows civil unions are not a substitute for full equality.
Australian Marriage Equality National Convener, Alex Greenwich, welcomed the announcement which was made by Equality Minister, Lynn Featherstone, and has the strong backing of Conservative Prime Minister, David Cameron, according to sources in the Conservative Party.
“The fact that Britain’s Conservative-dominated Government is moving towards full equality places yet more pressure on Australia’s Labor Government to do the same”, Mr Greenwich.
“This move also sends a message to the Australian Liberal Party, that their conservative counter-parts around the world are openning their hearts and minds to the importance of marriage equality”
“It is also a reminder that civil partnership schemes like the one currently operating in Britain are not an adequate substitute for full legal equality for same-sex couples.”
“Previous inquiries into the operation of such schemes show they do not provide the same legal or social recognition as marriage, and I have no doubt next year’s inquiry will do the same.”
Mr Greenwich noted that public support for marriage equality in Australia is as high and possibly higher than in the UK.
Further reporting here.
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335..