* Sunday 25 January 2015 * Apps * eBooks * i Jobs * Dating * Shop The Independent [i100-radx2.jpg] * News + UK o Home News o UK Politics o Scottish independence o Crime o Weird News + World o Europe o Americas o Middle East o Asia o Africa o Australasia o World Politics o World History o Novaya Gazeta (English) o WW1 Moments + Business o Business News o Business Comment o Business Analysis & Features o Sharewatch o SME o Market News o Market Epic o Market Heatmaps o Market Screener o Business Directory o ES Business Connections o Create a business profile + People + Science + Environment o Climate Change o Green Living o Nature + Media o Opinion o TV & Radio o Press o Online o Advertising + Technology + Education o News o Schools o Further o Higher o Primary Tables 2011 o Secondary Tables 2012 o Training & Courses o MBA & Executive + Images + Obituaries + Diary + Corrections + Newsletter + Appeals * Video * People * Voices * Sport * Tech * Life * Property * Arts + Ents * Travel * Money * IndyBest * Student * Offers Page Three Chilcot inquiry Homeless Veterans Campaign George Osborne Greece Michael Gove News > UK > Home News First gay marriages in the UK will take place at the stroke of midnight tonight [Flag.jpg] [Flag.jpg] For many gay couples, the big day they have long fought for has finally arrived Heather Saul Author Biography Heather Saul Heather Saul is an online news reporter for www.independent.co.uk More articles from this journalist Follow Heather Saul Friday 28 March 2014 Print Your friend's email address ____________________ Your email address ____________________ Send Reset Note: We do not store your email address(es) but your IP address will be logged to prevent abuse of this feature. Please read our Legal Terms & Policies A A A Email The first same-sex marriages in the UK will take place at the stroke of midnight tonight, after years of tireless campaigning by gay couples fighting to have their unions recognised by law. The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act came into force in July last year, but it was not until 13 March that couples were able to register their intention to marry under the Act for the first time. Campaigners who spent years battling for the legalisation of gay marriage will see the historic law enacted at midnight, despite objections from the Church of England and some members of the Conservative party. Civil partnerships were introduced in England and Wales in 2005 to provide gay couples with the same legal rights as heterosexual partners, but campaigners continued fighting to have their marriages recognised by law. A number of couples are hoping to claim the title of being the first ever to be married in Britain by trying to time it perfectly so their vows are said at 12.01am. Peter McGraith and David Cabreza, who have been together for 17 years, said they wanted to wed as soon as the marriage laws changed. Mr McGraith said: "We are thrilled to be getting married. It is a mark of significant social progress in the UK that the legal distinction between gay and straight relationships has been removed.” Read more: Same-sex marriage is about to become legal Why I'm turning my gay wedding into a Channel 4 musical Couples look forward to the big day at Gay Wedding Show Also vying for the title of first same-sex couple to marry in Britain will be Brighton couple Andrew Wale and Neil Allard. The pair will wed in Brighton's famous Royal Pavilion. Sue Wilkinson, 60, and Celia Kitzinger, 57, tied the knot in Canada in 2003 and fought for eight years to have their union recognised here. They took their fight to the High Court in 2006, when a judge refused to make a declaration that their marriage was valid in this country. But, due to the change in the law, their marriage became legally binding at one minute past midnight on 13 March. Ruth Hunt, acting chief executive of gay rights charity Stonewall, said: "Saturday is a momentous day for England and Wales, as the first same-sex marriages mark full legal equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. "The first weddings will send a powerful message to every person in Britain and around the world that you can live and love as you choose, regardless of your sexual orientation." World News in Pictures Start your day with The Independent, sign up for daily news emails Enter URL: http://_____________ Enter URL: http://_____________ News US comedian Bill Mahr Comedian Bill Maher slams American Sniper for glorifying 'psychopath patriot' Chris Kyle people Voices Winston Churchill, then prime minister, outside No 10 in June 1943 Winston Churchill: the enigma of a British hero voicesA C Benson called him 'a horrid little fellow', George Orwell would have shot him, but what a giant he seems now, says DJ Taylor Sport Bradford fight from 2-0 down to beat Chelsea in massive FA Cup upset football News Rob Lowe 'A woman who eats cereal out of a bathtub gets to meet with the President and the Prime Minister of Israel does not?' peopleRob Lowe hits out at Obama's snub of Benjamin Netanyahu PROMOTED VIDEO Have you tried new the Independent Digital Edition apps? ebooks Andy McSmith: The Diary 2014 ebooksA year of political gossip, levity and intrigue from the sharpest pen in Westminster News Davies (let) says: 'Everybody thought we were having an affair. It was never true!' Russell T Davies & Ben Cook: How we met people'Our friendship flourished online. You can share some very revelatory moments at four in the morning…' Arts and Entertainment Over their 20 years, the band has built a community of dedicated followers the world over Belle & Sebastian singer reveals how the band is taking a new direction music News Staff assemble outside the old City Road offices in London 25 years of The Independent on Sunday mediaThe stories, the writers and the changes over the last quarter of a century at Britain's youngest paper * Editorial: After 25 years, the message remains the same Life and Style The Oliver twins, Philip and Andrew, at work creating the 'Dizzy' arcade-adventure games in 1988 As a retro version of the ZX Spectrum gears up for release, meet the geeks who rocked the world techDocumentary looks back at origins of the computer-games industry Arts and Entertainment Krall says: 'My hero player-singer is Elton John I used to listen to him as a child, every single record Jazz singer Diana Krall on being friends with Elton John, outer space and skiing in Dubai music News Friends for life … some professionals think loneliness is more worrying than obesity Friends and family make life sweeter - but not a day longer scienceSocial contact is good for our sense of wellbeing - but it's a myth that loneliness kills, say researchers Arts and Entertainment The Wu-Tang Clan will sell only one copy of their album Once Upon A Time In Shaolin Smash hits go under the hammer musicWu-Tang Clan and The Sexual Objects offer fans a chance to own only copies of their latest albums News Meet the man buying up billions of pounds' worth of British businesses i100 Environment Number so freshwater mussels in Cumbria have plummeted from up to three million in the 20th century to 500,000 Growing mussels: Precious freshwater shellfish are thriving in a unique green project environment Life and Style Models – and musicians – on the catwalk in Dior Homme for the men’s 2015/16 fashion show in Paris Pinstriped for action: A glimpse of what the very rich man will be wearing this winter fashionAt this season's Paris shows, various labels played with the city boys' favourite News Britain First's smart phone app, reviewed i100 [veteranLogo.jpg] * donate now * read about our appeal Please provide search keyword(s) ____________________ Go + Advanced search + Article archive + Topics Latest stories from i100 + Most Shared + Most Viewed + Most Commented + 1 Alfred Ajani's two sign pictures Man who held up 'hire me' sign at Waterloo station returns a year later with 'I'm hiring' sign + 2 An abandoned newborn baby cries in an incubator after he was rescued from a sewage pipe at a hospital in Jinhua, Zhejiang province Mother of newborn Baby No 59 trapped in sewer pipe told Chinese police she 'heard crying' when she raised alarm + 3 Saudi preacher who 'raped and tortured' his five -year-old daughter to death is released after paying 'blood money' + 4 Andy Murray trying to cool down with an ice pack during his match against Joao Sousa at the 2013 Australian Open Tennis fan suing Australian Open organisers for 'failing to shade spectators' during Murray match + 5 This crazy skiing video will leave you feeling queasy + Alfred Ajani's two sign pictures Man who held up 'hire me' sign at Waterloo station returns a year later with 'I'm hiring' sign + An abandoned newborn baby cries in an incubator after he was rescued from a sewage pipe at a hospital in Jinhua, Zhejiang province Mother of newborn Baby No 59 trapped in sewer pipe told Chinese police she 'heard crying' when she raised alarm + Saudi preacher who 'raped and tortured' his five -year-old daughter to death is released after paying 'blood money' + A member of Indonesia's search and rescue team walks past wreckage of AirAsia flight QZ8501 recovered at sea and stored in a warehouse for investigators in Kumai, Central Kalimantan on Borneo island AirAsia QZ8501: Black box reveals warning alarms 'screamed' before crash, as more bodies recovered from near fuselage of jet + Rob Lowe Rob Lowe hits out at White House decision not to meet Israeli leader + Eric Pickles' letter has been condemned by Muslim leaders British Muslim leaders outraged after Eric Pickles says followers of Islam should 'prove their identity' Cahal Milmo + Linda with her son James (face pixellated for legal reasons) UK terror fears: My jihadist son returned from Syria mentally scarred – now he is being ignored Zack Adesina, Vivek Chaudhary + Nigel Farage has welcomed the Pub Landlord's announcement as the arrival of 'serious competition' Nigel Farage: NHS might have to be replaced by private health insurance Andrew Grice + The FX network has commissioned 13 episodes of The Comedians Billy Crystal: 'Stop shoving gay sex scenes in my face' Helen Nianias + A petition calling on Twitter to suspend the app has attracted more than 1,200 signatures French court convicts three over homophobic tweets, in case hailed as a 'significant victory' by LGBT rights campaigners Kashmira Gander + David Cameron will introduce legislation dubbed the 'snoopers’ charter' to help the security services spy on internet communications if he wins the next general election David Cameron says anyone criticising Eric Pickles' letter to Muslims 'really has a problem' Lizzie Dearden independent images RICS Photography competition Police say they are treating the stabbing on a bus in Tel Aviv as a terrorist attack Tel Aviv bus attack Himmler on a visit to the camp in January 1940 Ravensbrück concentration camp Inside and outside the Lawton Court Hotel in Llandudno, which has dazzled guests World's best bargain hotels Barack Obama delivers the State of the Union address to Congress State of the Union Protests outside 'The Sun' from No More Page 3 campaigners No More Page Three campaign 23 January 2015: Mourners carry the body of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia outside the Imam Turki bin Abdullah mosque in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia World news in pictures 23 January 2015: Jock VI, the current cat in residence at Chartwell, on a memorial bench during a preview of 'Death of a Hero' exhibition at Winston Churchillís Chartwell family home UK news in pictures 23 Janaury 2015: A Palestinian boy climbs a big stone wall that was painted by local artists at the sea port in Gaza City in an attempt to bring more vibrant colours to the city Arts + Ents news in pictures 23 January 2015: Spain's Rafael Nadal celebrates after victory in his men's singles match against Israel's Dudi Sela on day five of the 2015 Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne Sport news in pictures + < Previous + 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 + 6 + 7 + 8 + 9 + 10 + Next > Have you tried new the Independent Digital Edition apps? SPONSORED FEATURES [oliphaunt.jpg] i100: How to take a wild career break and come back more employable Fancy a wacky sabbatical? Gambia i100 Gym for free RICS Prizes & offers Business videos [Gambia content box image.jpg] A warm welcome to the smiling coast of Gambia The Gambia is fast becoming known as a winter sun haven Wild Career Break i100 Gym for free RICS Prizes & offers Business videos [everyday-hero-sponsored-features.jpg] i100: Who makes your world a better place? Tweet us the people who deserve some recognition to @thei100 with the hashtag #everydayhero and tell us why. Wild Career Break Gambia Gym for free RICS Prizes & offers Business videos [FitnessFirst_053.jpg] Turn Blue Monday Red On officially the most depressing day of the year, Fitness First opens its doors to everyone for free. Get energised, focused and upbeat. Wild Career Break Gambia i100 RICS Prizes & offers Business videos [sponsored-features.jpg] Build yourself a brighter future Chartered surveyors will be critical to shaping our new world Wild Career Break Gambia i100 Gym for free Prizes & offers Business videos [comps.jpg] Enter the latest Independent competitions Win anything from gadgets to five-star holidays on our competitions and offers page. Wild Career Break Gambia i100 Gym for free RICS Business videos [IBM.jpg] Business videos from commercial thought leaders Watch the best in the business world give their insights into the world of business. Wild Career Break Gambia i100 Gym for free RICS Prizes & offers IFRAME: http://www.smartlinks.dianomi.com/smartads.epl?id=1676 Independent Dating Show Me [Women] Between: [18_] and [30_] Location: [-- Select --__________] By clicking 'Search' you are agreeing to our Terms of Use. Submit iJobs Job Widget iJobs General Recruitment Genius: Sales Consultant - Solar Energy - OTE £50,000 £15000 - £50000 per annum: Recruitment Genius: Fantastic opportunities are ava... Recruitment Genius: Compute Engineer Negotiable: Recruitment Genius: A Compute Engineer is required to join a globa... Ashdown Group: PHP Web Developer / Website Coordinator (PHP, JavaScript) £25000 - £28000 per annum + 25 days holidays & pension: Ashdown Group: PHP Web... Recruitment Genius: Estates Projects & Resources Manager £35000 - £40000 per annum: Recruitment Genius: Based in London, Manchester, Br... View the latest from iJobs Day In a Page + Sun + Mon + Tue + Wed + Thu + Fri + Sat [25] [January__] [2015] (BUTTON) Go Iraq invasion 2003: The bloody warnings six wise men gave to Tony Blair as he prepared to launch poorly planned campaign What the six wise men told Tony Blair Months before the invasion of Iraq in 2003, experts sought to warn the PM about his plans. Here, four of them recall that day 25 years of The Independent on Sunday: The stories, the writers and the changes over the last quarter of a century 25 years of The Independent on Sunday The stories, the writers and the changes over the last quarter of a century Homeless Veterans appeal: 'Really caring is a dangerous emotion in this kind of work' Homeless Veterans appeal As head of The Soldiers' Charity, Martin Rutledge has to temper compassion with realism. He tells Chris Green how his Army career prepared him Wu-Tang Clan and The Sexual Objects offer fans a chance to own the only copies of their latest albums Smash hit go under the hammer It's nice to pick up a new record once in a while, but the purchasers of two latest releases can go a step further - by buying the only copy Geeks who rocked the world: Documentary looks back at origins of the computer-games industry The geeks who rocked the world A new documentary looks back at origins of the computer-games industry Belle & Sebastian interview: Stuart Murdoch reveals how the band is taking a new direction Belle & Sebastian is taking a new direction Twenty years ago, Belle & Sebastian was a fey indie band from Glasgow. It still is – except today, as prime mover Stuart Murdoch admits, it has a global cult following, from Hollywood to South Korea America: Land of the free, home of the political dynasty America: Land of the free, home of the political dynasty These days in the US things are pretty much stuck where they are, both in politics and society at large, says Rupert Cornwell A graphic history of US civil rights – in comic book form A graphic history of US civil rights – in comic book form A veteran of the Fifties campaigns is inspiring a new generation of activists Winston Churchill: the enigma of a British hero Winston Churchill: the enigma of a British hero A C Benson called him 'a horrid little fellow', George Orwell would have shot him, but what a giant he seems now, says DJ Taylor Growing mussels: Precious freshwater shellfish are thriving in a unique green project Growing mussels Precious freshwater shellfish are thriving in a unique green project Diana Krall: The jazz singer on being friends with Elton John, outer space and skiing in Dubai Diana Krall interview The jazz singer on being friends with Elton John, outer space and skiing in Dubai Pinstriped for action: A glimpse of what the very rich man will be wearing this winter Pinstriped for action A glimpse of what the very rich man will be wearing this winter Russell T Davies & Ben Cook: 'Our friendship flourished online. You can share some very revelatory moments at four in the morning…' Russell T Davies & Ben Cook: How we met 'Our friendship flourished online. You can share some very revelatory moments at four in the morning…' Bill Granger recipes: Our chef serves up his favourite Japanese dishes Bill Granger's Japanese recipes Stock up on mirin, soy and miso and you have the makings of everyday Japanese cuisine Michael Calvin: How we need more Eric Cantonas to knock some sense into us Michael Calvin's Last Word How we need more Eric Cantonas to knock some sense into us + Terms & Policies + Privacy Policy + Cookie policy + Code of Conduct + Complaint form + Email newsletters + RSS + Live Blogs + About i100 + Contact Us + Subscriptions + Apps + Work for us + Evening Standard + Homes & Property + iJobs + News video + Sport video + Advertising Guide + Syndication + Novaya Gazeta (English) + ES Business Connections + ES Rentals + London Live © independent.co.uk The Independent Please provide search keyword(s) ____________________ Go + Advanced search + Article archive + Topics #News » Gay marriage will change the Church of England forever Comments Feed [p?c1=2&c2=6035736&cv=2.0&cj=1] News RSS Feed dcsimg Sunday 25 January 2015 | Blog Feed | All feeds Website of the Telegraph Media Group with breaking news, sport, business, latest UK and world news. Content from the Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph newspapers and video from Telegraph TV. ___________________ Submit * Home * Video * News * World * Sport * Finance * Comment * Culture * Travel * Life * Women * Fashion * Luxury * Tech * Cars * Politics * General election 2015 * Investigations * Obits * Education * Science * Earth * Weather * Health * Royal * Celebrities * Weird Blogs Home » News » Religion » Damian Thompson Damian Thompson Damian Thompson is Editor of Telegraph Blogs and a columnist for the Daily Telegraph. He was once described by The Church Times as a "blood-crazed ferret". He is on Twitter as HolySmoke. His latest book is The Fix: How addiction is taking over your world. He also writes about classical music for The Spectator. IFRAME: http://platform.twitter.com/widgets/follow_button.html?show_screen_name=false&show_count=true&screen_name=holysmoke [damian2.jpeg] Gay marriage will change the Church of England forever By Damian Thompson Religion Last updated: March 29th, 2014 Comment on this Comment on this article As of today, their power is broken The first British gay weddings today face the Church of England with a perfectly simple question to which it can only reply with embarrassed throat-clearing. Do we go along with this or not? David Cameron's promise to safeguard the established Church from same-sex ceremonies rings pretty hollow when you read a story like this one, from our religious affairs editor John Bingham: Gay clergy should follow their conscience and defy the Church of England’s restrictions on same-sex marriage, a prominent bishop has said as the most radical change ever made to the legal definition of marriage in Britain comes into force. The Rt Rev Alan Wilson, the Bishop of Buckingham, said priests should be “creative” to get around restrictions on blessings for same-sex couples and that gay clergy who wish to marry should do so in defiance of the official line. He also claimed that several current serving bishops are themselves in gay partnerships, and urged them to publicly acknowledge their status for the sake of “honesty and truthfulness” and even consider marrying. Joined by an alliance of seven retired bishops, he condemned the Church’s position on gay marriage as “morally outrageous” and said it made him “ashamed”. Bishop Wilson is a suffragan, not in charge of a diocese – but, really, that doesn't matter. He's a serving bishop with, it would appear, a ruthless streak: not so long ago, it was only Peter Tatchell who would state publicly that C of E bishops were in gay partnerships and should out themselves. And if they choose not to? Bishop Wilson won't do it for them, but he must know that others will. The Church's real problem, however, is not the hypocrisy of closeted prelates. It's that so many priests are perfectly content to solemnise homosexual marriages in church and will indeed be "creative" in finding ways to do so. How will Archbishop Justin Welby respond? "I think the church has reacted by fully accepting that it's the law, and should react on Saturday by continuing to demonstrate in word and action, the love of Christ for every human being," he told the Guardian in best Rev J C Flannel mode. Uh-huh. Oh, and there will be "structured conversations" to help resolve the problem. Here's my prediction. As of today, pro-gay clergy will begin to unpick Cameron's "triple lock" banning parishes from holding gay weddings; during the next Parliament it will cease to exist. Priests who want to marry same-sex couples, or indeed marry their own gay lovers, will just do it. Anglo-Catholic and Evangelical parishes that reject the whole notion won't be forced to host such ceremonies, but both these wings of the C of E are moving in a liberal direction, and in the long run demographic change will finish the job. It's hard to overestimate the weakening effect this will have on the central structures of the Church. The General Synod's deliberations will be rendered irrelevant. The fiction of the "Anglican Communion" will be abandoned. Conservative provinces in Africa will repudiate the C of E; the last Lambeth Conference's disciplinary action against the anything-goes American Episcopal Church will cease to mean anything. In the 1990s, when I started reporting on Anglican affairs, gay marriage was regarded as a non-negotiable horror by most clergy and churchgoers. The shattering of that consensus has happened far more quickly than even the most optimistic Christian gay campaigners thought possible. And if the centre cannot hold, one has to ask: what is up for negotiation next? Belief in an afterlife? The divinity of Jesus of Nazareth? After today, one thing is uncomfortably clear: the Church of England has lost the power – and even the inclination – to draw a line in the sand. listen to ‘Wedding bells or alarm bells? What gay marriage says about modern Britain’ on Audioboo Tags: Church of England, gay marriage Recent Posts * Margaret Thatcher didn't mind being hated. Tony Blair does – very much indeed June 17th, 2014 16:16 Comment on this * ISIS invades Iraq: this is a war of religion June 15th, 2014 14:56 Comment on this * David Cameron tells us we're bashful about 'Britishness'. The sheer nerve of the man June 15th, 2014 8:00 Comment on this * Discovered: those missing costumes from Blake's Seven June 11th, 2014 18:18 Comment on this * Oxfam's latest poster is crude Labour propaganda. Time to cancel your standing order June 10th, 2014 11:17 Comment on this How we moderate Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. comments powered by Disqus Archives [Select Month__] RECOMMENDED IN NEWS BLOGS [antibiotics_2896779b-460x288.jpg] Science Six reasons superbugs will be worse than Aids Idea for a movie. [Oklahoma-Double-Ex_2896395a-460x288.jpg] World The death penalty hurts those who carry it out: it tears at our shared humanity The reports of the botched execution of Clayton Lockett in Oklahoma are horrific to read. News bloggers * UK Politics * Iain Martin * Norman Tebbit * Daniel Hannan * James Kirkup * Toby Young * Douglas Carswell * Janet Daley * Dan Hodges * Graeme Archer * Mary Riddell * Andrew Gilligan * Will Heaven * Andrew M Brown * Tom Chivers * Stephen Pollard * Brendan O'Neill * Cristina Odone * Robert Colvile * Geoffrey Lean * Judith Potts * US Politics * Peter Foster * Tim Stanley * Robert Wargas * Nile Gardiner * Foreign * David Blair * Con Coughlin * Charles Crawford * Rob Crilly News Tags afghanistan Barack Obama BBC Boris Johnson china climate change coalition Conservative Party Conservatives David Cameron Ed Balls Ed Miliband eu euro europe european union Eurosceptic George Osborne global warming gordon brown immigration Iran iraq Islam Israel Ken Livingstone labour Labour Party Liberal Democrats Libya Margaret Thatcher Michael Gove Mitt Romney NHS Nick Clegg Nigel Farage Russia Syria tea party tony blair Tories twitter UKIP US politics William Hague News Topics * David Cameron * Liberal Democrats * Conservative Party * Labour Party * Barack Obama * Pictures * Defence * Climate Change * Royal Wedding * Religion * China * Afghanistan Back to top * HOME * News * World News * Obituaries * Travel * * Sport * Football * Cricket * Fantasy Football * Culture * Motoring * Dating * Finance * Personal Finance * Economics * Markets * Fashion * Property * Puzzles * Comment * Blogs * My Telegraph * Letters * Technology * Gardening * Telegraph Journalists * Contact Us * Privacy and Cookies * Advertising * Telegraph Shop * Tickets * Announcements * Reader Prints * * Follow Us * Apps * Epaper * Expat * Promotions * Subscriber * Syndication © Copyright of Telegraph Media Group Limited 2015 Terms and Conditions Today's News Archive Style Book Weather Forecast #alternate baptists-together-header-logo •Login Search whole site_____ search-button [BUTTON Input] (not implemented)_____ church finder donate home About | What's happening? | Safeguarding | The Baptist Times | Resources | Contact Us 242129Sexuality A Baptist response to The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 The Faith and Society Team has produced some notes which are offered as general guidelines for churches and ministers concerned about the implications of the introduction of same sex marriages in 2014. They are provided in response to the introduction of this Bill and should not be read as an opinion. Further detailed guidelines for churches and ministers are being considered During Assembly 2013 we launched a series of conversations that have since taken place throughout our union, in churches, associations and colleges. There is a breadth of opinion in our union on these issues, the conversations continue and Baptists are encouraged to use the email address talkingtogether@mail.com to submit reflections and outcomes of their own particular conversations. The issues have also been considered in Council (November 2013 and March 2014) and at many meetings of Team Leaders and the Baptist Steering Group. At Assembly 2014 an update of our process was shared and the following was offered on behalf of the Baptist Steering Group to express where we are up to on the journey. This will serve as a backdrop to our continuing conversations and the way we will seek to behave - Baptist churches are encouraged to continue to engage with these issues. As a union of churches in covenant together we will respect the differences on this issue which both enrich us and potentially could divide as we seek to live in fellowship under the direction of our Declaration of Principle ‘That our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, is the sole and absolute authority in all matters pertaining to faith and practice, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, and that each church has liberty, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to interpret and administer His Laws.’ Upholding the liberty of a local church to determine its own mind on this matter, in accordance with our Declaration of Principle, we also recognise the freedom of a minister to respond to the wishes of their church, where their conscience permits, without breach of disciplinary guidelines. We affirm the traditionally accepted Biblical understanding of Christian marriage, as a union between a man and a woman, as the continuing foundation of belief in our Baptist Churches. A Baptist minister is required to live and work within the guidelines adopted by the Baptist Union of Great Britain regarding sexuality and the ministry that include ‘a sexual relationship outside of Christian marriage (as defined between a man and a woman) is deemed conduct unbecoming for a minister’. [button1-share.gif] About Associations and Specialist Teams Specialist Teams Faith and Society Team Engaging with Society Creation Care Debt / Poverty Domestic Violence Drones Early Human Life Fairtrade Inter Faith Engagement Politics and Christian Faith A Baptist response to the Marriage (same sex) Act Bicentenary FiveCoreValues Logos [687582.png] Baptist Union of Great Britain, Baptist House, PO Box 44, 129 Broadway, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 8RT, England Telephone: 01235 517700 Email us Sorry, the code you entered was incorrect. Please try again. [BUTTON Input] (not implemented)__ [BUTTON Input] (not implemented)______ Sign up for E-News ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ [BUTTON Input] (not implemented)____ twitter facebook like youtube email * + About o Who are Baptists? o Baptist Steering Gp o President o Association and Specialist Teams o Colleges o Home Mission o Governance o Becoming Part of BUGB o Baptist Insurance o Retired Baptist Ministers Housing Society o BMS World Mission + The Baptist Times o Latest News o # Regional # National # International o Features o Opinions/Reflections o Book Reviews o Jobs o Letters o Baptisms o Obituaries + What's Happening? o Latest o Events o Blogs o Press Releases o Social Media + Safeguarding o Training o Safeguarding Policy o Response to Concerns o Safe Recruitment o Safe Behaviour o Safe Practice o Safe Community o Gospel Insight o Latest News o Download Forms o Contacts + Resources o Resources and Guidelines o Video & Podcast Library o Home Mission Resources o Online Shop + Contact Us o General Secretary o Database Changes o Press and Media Support o Faith & Society Team o Ministries Team o Support Services Team o News & Baptist Times o Website o Regional Associations a ChurchInsight site Low Graphics | Copyright | T&Cs | Privacy | Cookies Registered Charity 1125912 Login The Methodist Church Search______________ SEARCH THIS SITE * Home * Who we are + Vision & values + Views of the Church + + What is Distinctive about Methodism? + Doctrine of the Methodist Church + + Structure + History + + Heritage + Questions about the Christian Faith? + + Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals + Membership + + Relationships with other denominations + Anglican-Methodist Covenant + + Logos + Job Opportunities + + Contact Us * Discipleship + About + Engaging with Scripture + + Spiritual Practices + Evangelism + + Small Groups + Discipleship and the people called Methodists + + Whole life disciple-making + What's new * Mission + World Church + Public Issues + + Mission in Britain + Support our Work + + Climate Change + Children and Youth + + Pioneer Ministry + Inter Faith Relations + + Rural Mission + Junior Mission for All (JMA) + + A Generous Life + Mission Matters magazine + + Fresh Expressions + Welcome and Invitation + + Chaplaincy + Education + + Asylum and Immigration + Sharing the Gospel + + The Olympic/Paralympic legacy + Street Child World Cup + + Remembering World War One + Statistics for Mission + + Research * Prayer and worship + Advent and Christmas + Lent and Easter + + Methodist Special Sundays + Ecumenical Special Sundays + + Prayer of the day + Daily Bible Study + + Additional Methodist Liturgies + Lectionary and other resources + + Powerpoint for worship + Creative Prayer + + Creative Arts + Theology + + Singing the Faith + Spirituality + + Methodist Prayer Handbook + Learning to Love and Praise * News and events + Latest News + Sign up for e-newsletters + + Follow us on Facebook/Twitter + Podcasts + + Media Service + E-News + + The Buzz + the connexion magazine + + Events Calendar + Diary + + Leadership blogs + Methodism in the Media + + Methodist Blogging + Methodist Church App + + Local Events and News + RSS Feeds + + President and VP diary + Rethink Sanctions + + The Lobbying Act and local churches * Conference + Conference 2014 + Current President and Vice-President + + Conference Reports + Conference Podcasts + + Putting A Memorial to the Conference + About Methodist Conference + + Expectations of Various Groups + Methodist Council * Links + Find a church + Church Webmap Advanced Version + + Districts, Circuits and other Methodist organisations + Contact the Connexional Team + + Contact webeditor + Methodist Partner Organisations + + Methodist Publishing * Ministers and Office Holders + Leadership and Ministry + Vocation Days + + Safeguarding + Stipends and Payroll + + Standard Forms of Accounts + Finance and Treasurers + + Connexional Grants + Managing Trustees + + Property + Pastoral Care + + Worship Leaders + Local Preachers + + The Learning Network + CPD + + Council Papers + Complaints and Discipline + + TMCP + Faith and Order Committee + + Equality and Diversity + Technology and church + + Employees and Volunteers + Wellbeing + + Pensions + Archivists + + Larger than Circuit * Home * >Who we are * >Views of the Church * >Human Sexuality * >The Same Sex Marriage and Civil Partnership Working Group * * * * * * Who we are + Vision & values + Views of the Church o Abortion and Contraception o Alcohol o The Alpha Course o Animal Welfare o Small arms o Copyright o Domestic Abuse o Drugs o Euthanasia o Fair Trade o Gambling o Genetic Engineering o Government and Politics o Human Sexuality # The Same Sex Marriage and Civil Partnership Working Group @ Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act – Frequently Asked Questions @ Members of the Working Group # Review of the 1993 Resolutions on Human Sexuality o Media Complaints o The National Lottery o Peace and War o Racism o Methodist boycott of goods from illegal Israeli settlements + What is Distinctive about Methodism? + Doctrine of the Methodist Church + Structure + History + Heritage + Questions about the Christian Faith? + Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals + Membership + Relationships with other denominations + Anglican-Methodist Covenant + Logos + Job Opportunities + Contact Us The Same Sex Marriage and Civil Partnership Working Group The consultation for Methodists on same sex marriage and civil partnerships has now closed. Susan Howdle Susan Howdle Chair of the working group Background to the consultation The Methodist Conference in July 2013 set up a working group "to consider whether the Methodist Church's position on marriage needs revising in light of changes in society, undertaking this consideration with reference to scripture, tradition, reason and experience. The terms of reference would be: a. To consider the implications for the Methodist Church of a change in legislation covering same-sex marriage; b. To consider whether the Methodist Church's position on marriage needs revising in the light of changes in society; c. To undertake the work directed by the reply to Memorial 29(2012) [a Memorial from the Birmingham Synod seeking for a review of the Conference's ruling that blessing of civil partnerships should not take place on Methodist premises] d. To make recommendations for any changes in practice or polity." The working group identified a range of possible areas for consideration. It tested out by wide consultation whether these are indeed the issues about which it should make recommendations to the Conference of 2014 that they be explored more fully. If you have any other questions please contact Sanya Strachan - strachans@methodistchurch.org.uk Susan Howdle Chair, the Same Sex Marriage and Civil Partnerships Working Group Report of the working group to the Methodist Conference 2014 FAQs on the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act Membership of the Working Group * Sign up for e-newslettersKeep in touch with what interests you Sign up now * A Word in Time A Word in Time This Week's Bible Study Copyright ©2014 Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes. The Methodist Church Registered Charity no. 1132208 * Sitemap | * Copyright and Disclaimer | * Privacy and cookie policy Website by Convio Methodist Insurance - for your church, home, charity and community #RSS Home Do not be afraid Justin Welby's media comments on same-sex marriage Thinking Anglicans « Do not be afraid | Main | Justin Welby's media comments on same-sex marriage » Friday, 16 May 2014 Same-sex marriage: Baptist statements Recently, a news report appeared at the website of Premier Christian Radio which was headlined: Baptist Union to allow gay marriage ceremonies. The Baptist Union objected to this interpretation of its actions, and the report was modified. It is now headlined Steve Chalke welcomes Baptist Union gay guideline change The original statement by the Baptist Union is available here. At Assembly 2014 an update of our process was shared and the following was offered on behalf of the Baptist Steering Group to express where we are up to on the journey. This will serve as a backdrop to our continuing conversations and the way we will seek to behave. As a union of churches in covenant together we will respect the differences on this issue which both enrich us and potentially could divide as we seek to live in fellowship under the direction of our Declaration of Principle ‘That our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, is the sole and absolute authority in all matters pertaining to faith and practice, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, and that each church has liberty, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to interpret and administer His Laws.’ Upholding the liberty of a local church to determine its own mind on this matter, in accordance with our Declaration of Principle, we also recognise the freedom of a minister to respond to the wishes of their church, where their conscience permits, without breach of disciplinary guidelines. We affirm the traditionally accepted Biblical understanding of Christian marriage, as a union between a man and a woman, as the continuing foundation of belief in our Baptist Churches. A Baptist minister is required to live and work within the guidelines adopted by the Baptist Union of Great Britain regarding sexuality and the ministry that include ‘a sexual relationship outside of Christian marriage (as defined between a man and a woman) is deemed conduct unbecoming for a minister’. The whole story is analysed in great detail by Adrian Warnock. See The Baptist Union to allow differences on Same Sex Marriage and Interview on Same Sex Marriage with Baptist Union Spokesman Stephen Keyworth. Meanwhile, the dispute between the Evangelical Alliance and Oasis Trust has been analysed in similar detail by Cranmer in Steve Chalke and the artful Evangelical Alliance defiance. A lot of words have been (and are still being) poured out on the ‘schism’ in Evangelicalism following the expulsion of the Oasis Trust from the Evangelical Alliance over Oasis founder Steve Chalke’s stance on same-sex relationships, which the EA deem to be inconsistent with the ‘traditional’ Evangelical view. It seems that Evangelicals are only ‘Better Together’ (their mission slogan) when there is compliance and uniformity on the zeitgeist obsession of homosexuality. The EA do not expel members who support abortion; nor do they sever links with those who marry divorcees or accept pre-marital sexual relations as a forerunner of marriage. They do not even expel a member for repudiation of the foundational Evangelical doctrine of substitutionary atonement, which the Rev’d Steve Chalke terms “cosmic child abuse”, as though God casually murdered His Son for the salvation of the world, and penal substitution is barbaric and utterly morally indefensible… Posted by Simon Sarmiento on Friday, 16 May 2014 at 8:54am BST | TrackBack You can make a Permalink to this if you like Categorised as: equality legislation Comments Thinking Baptists? Posted by: Father David on Friday, 16 May 2014 at 9:53am BST Would Justin Welby, John Sentamu and any others in the House of Bishops be eligible for membership of the Evangelical Alliance if they were to apply? Posted by: Concerned Anglican on Friday, 16 May 2014 at 12:09pm BST Not very surprising news for Oasis Trust. Many years ago I was around when their leadership team started conversations with LGCM. There was a great deal of uncertainty all around, but the desire to listen and learn from Steve Chalke was humbling. Mostly those on the gay side thought nothing could come of it, even then there was a sense that they weren't looking for a single definite policy or answer, that was where they had come from, underlying those early rumblings there was a deep desire to see people live together in the faith while holding diametrically opposed views. The political gay view was if you aren't for us you are part of the problem. No surprise either that the last few Fulcrum ideologues have welcomed this move. Those poor men are really lost and even more obsessed about the topic than former campaigners like me! Posted by: Martin Reynolds on Friday, 16 May 2014 at 4:04pm BST Martin, the "Fulcrum ideologues" are so focused because they know that any change to church teaching about homosexuality would destroy their power. They'll move swiftly to expel and marginalize evangelicals who stray from the party line. It's not gay relationships per se that bother them, but the status of biblical authority. What's more, their focus is working. The majority are indifferent to how the church treats gay people. Many, if not most, young Christians are evangelicals, who hold the traditional line. Christian Unions dominate universities, and future leaders are trained in the HTB finishing school. With the prevalence of homophobia amongst young people (noted by the Stonewall report on school bullying) there's ample recruits who'll be unconcerned. If anything, "hate the sin, love the sinner" would be a step up from the casual bigotry they inflict. This is where the battle for the church is. If liberals don't fight it as passionately as evangelicals, they'll keep losing, and if the evangelicals get the church, they, missional and media savvy, may well succeed in recruiting millions, and imposing their beliefs on society once more. Posted by: James Byron on Friday, 16 May 2014 at 7:50pm BST Who would have thought that our sisters and brothers of the Baptist Union would ever be seen to be open to same-sex relationships of any kind - let alone legal marriage? However Good on'em, as they say here in New Zealand. May this be a presage to the C. of E. letting out her stays and allowing same-sex monogamous couples to be welcomed within our Church in England. Mind you, we are yet to actually see that happen within our own little Anglican enclave at ACANZP. But God is not in any hurry, apparently. Posted by: Father Ron Smith on Saturday, 17 May 2014 at 2:17am BST Some Baptist congregations have already voted to marry same sex couples in their churches. e.g. Grove Lane Baptist Church, Stockport. Posted by: Revd Laurie Roberts on Saturday, 17 May 2014 at 3:46am BST "Christian Unions dominate universities" No, they really don't. They are tiny, marginal organisations, often in deep tension with student unions because of their openly homophobic and sexist beliefs (see the debacle at Bristol) and with no significant influence amongst the student body outside their (small) membership. They have about as much influence as Doctor Who society. It may be that there are not other, competing Christian organisation of any more influence, but that reflects the simple fact that Christianity as a whole is very much marginal on campus. Posted by: Interested Observer on Saturday, 17 May 2014 at 3:03pm BST By dominate universities, Interested Observer, I meant dominate college Christianity, which I should've made clearer. Sorry about that. :-) Student unions oppose CUs because homophobia is currently unfashionable on campus. A few short months before matriculation, a great many of those right-on students were making the lives of their lesbian and gay peers a misery. When they rock up in an arena where homophobia will cost 'em, praise be, they experience a Damascene conversion. If evangelicalism becomes popular on campus, they'll lose their pro-LGBT convictions as easily as they found them. That's what liberals miss. They think people are inherently good, and progress inevitable. The British government's just reasserted public Christianity: if evangelicalism gains control of the church, all the liberal gains in society will be undone so fast it'll make our heads spin. Posted by: James Byron on Saturday, 17 May 2014 at 9:47pm BST I think James is too pessimistic. The changes in social acceptability of homosexuality are not just sleight of hand or laziness - they are backed by a lot of argument and debate, both inside and outside churches. Once slavery had gone people got the idea that owning human beings was wrong, full stop. People are getting the idea that sexual difference is not a reason to disadvantage one small group. Those gains will need defending, sure, but they are not going to be reversed. Posted by: Jeremy Pemberton on Sunday, 18 May 2014 at 6:18am BST As usual, I tend to agree with James Byron's analysis. It's not sexual orientation, per se, that is central to the concerns of groups like the Evangelical Alliance, or Fulcrum, but the threat that giving in on those issues will subvert the essential concept of biblical authority and inerrancy. The primary motivation is, I believe, not sexual oppression, but loyalty to God in defence of a view of the Bible that - when threatened with subversion - fills hearts with dismay, visceral alarm, and reaction. Turning to the issue of Christian presence on university and college campuses... I'd say that the evangelically-linked and monitored Christian Unions are indeed the dominant Christian presence at university (based on being a final year student myself at the moment, and on the experiences of my daughter). Others are right to observe that their influence on the student body as a whole is, frankly, minimal. It's also worth observing that there are probably many practising Christians at uni who just steer a wide berth from the CU because it represents a simplistic, conservative version of their faith. But there are few liberal equivalents on campus. Generally speaking, at some campuses (for example, Lancaster) I suspect the chaplaincy teams act as something of a balance, in trying to raise consciousness and awareness of alternatively approaches to faith, to social justice, to the environment, and to other faiths. But the underlying reality is that in the UK today, many growing churches coalesce around quasi-fundamentalist teachings, where simplistic dogma offers sense of security and comfort. Certainly, in my workplace, as a final placement student nurse, a significant number of my colleagues profess this kind of lively, firmly evangelical faith. In this worldview, gay and lesbian sex are wrong because the bible teaches sex within marriage, between men and women. And because the bible is infallible, because it says it is infallible. Posted by: Susannah Clark on Sunday, 18 May 2014 at 2:29pm BST James, " a great many of those right-on students were making the lives of their lesbian and gay peers a misery." I would like to know what you mean by this. That evangelical lgbt students allow CU Christians to make their lives a misery? Or that moderate Christian or non-Christian lgbt people somehow give CU students the power to make their lives a misery? I understand that if you're an evangelical being brought up in a conservative church you fall under that spell and it is very very damaging and hard to extricate yourself from it. I understand that if you're in the church or want to be ordained, the church still has the power to make your life very very difficult. But who are these adult students who just sit about waiting whether CU Christians approve of their lives or not? Posted by: Erika Baker on Sunday, 18 May 2014 at 5:20pm BST Jeremy, d'you think the Eighties 'Sun' subs who wrote about "pulpit poofs" were somehow unaware that their words were hurtful to gay people? D'you think the teens who shout "batty-boy!" and "lezza!" at their peers are likewise oblivious? No, of course not, they know exactly what they're doing. They use the words precisely because they cause pain. Erika, what I mean is that students who were casually homophobic at school stop the moment they arrive at college because they know the social rules have changed: at school, you persecute lesbian and gay people without mercy; at college, you condemn homophobia. It has nothing to do with religion. They follow the crowd wherever it leads. In neither situation do they care about LGBT people, just their standing with their peer group. Most people aren't good or bad, merely indifferent. They want a quiet life. You get that by following the zeitgeist. If nodding along to evangelical pieties about marriage gets it, they'll do it in a heartbeat. Social acceptance of equal marriage is nothing but fashion, and fashion, as we all know, is fickle. Posted by: James Byron on Sunday, 18 May 2014 at 6:49pm BST The Christian Unions are a potent force. I have seen students from Catholic backgrounds " converted to Protestantism by their work, primarily because they received so little doctrinal formation in what passes for modern catholic catechetics.The former is in my opinion the otherside to child abuse in the Catholic Church. Posted by: Robert ian Williams on Monday, 19 May 2014 at 6:59am BST Post a comment Name: ____________________ Email Address: ____________________ URL: ____________________ Remember personal info? (*) Yes ( ) No Please note that comments are limited to 400 words. Comments that are longer than 400 words will not be approved. Cookies are used to remember your personal information between visits to the site. This information is stored on your computer and used to refill the text boxes on your next visit. Any cookie is deleted if you select 'No'. By ticking 'Yes' you agree to this use of a cookie by this site. No third-party cookies are used, and cookies are not used for analytical, advertising, or other purposes. Comments: __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Preview Post #Default home feed publisher Offers Fantasy Football Bingo Dating Jobs Competitions Horoscopes Cartoons Crosswords Cookie Policy Facebook Twitter GooglePlus Newsletters ____________________ (BUTTON) All the January transfer moves & gossip Mirror Mirror Subscriptions Sign up now for 25% OFF * Most read * Live feeds * Top Videos * News Sections Latest News UK News World News Weird News Ampp3d Crime Real Life Stories Health Top News Heartbreaking picture shows moments of panic after leading Egyptian female protester dies after being 'shot by police' Most Read in News + Mum of eleven Cheryl Prudham 'Baby machine' mum dumped by love rat husband as she expects her TWELFTH child + James Bulger killer Jon Venables joins dating website under different name + Christine Mayor from Aberdare with her son Kyle aged 16 who has severe autism. Christine claims that her son has not been treated correctly at his school. Mum feared teachers were abusing her autistic son, so she BUGGED his clothes... here's what she found + Matthew Richardson Ukip general secretary calls for NHS to be privatised and compares it to Nazi Germany + The heartwarming story was one of the biggest viral hits of 2014 - a lioness jumps onto a man and embraces him Heartwarming picture shows lioness HUGGING man who saved her life Trending Today James Bulger Jon Venables Leon Brittan Nigel Farage Prince Andrew, Duke of York Popular this week General election Anne Kirkbride FGM Blue Monday Education * Politics * Football * Celebs Sections Latest Celebs Celebrity News US Gossip Style Weird Celeb News Top Celebs Ex On The Beach star told boyfriend she KILLED his cat in revenge phone call over cheating rumours Most Read in Celebs + NTAs Liv Sheridan Smith dating married father-of-three Hollyoaks hunk Greg Wood + Pictured: Melanie Sykes cosies up to Matt Goss 20 years after they dated + Former Westlife singer Mark Feehily now selling crepes and coffees from a CATERING VAN + Cheryl Fernandez-Versini shark terror: Snorkelling star and hubby flee beast in Caribbean Trending Today Mark Feehily Amy Winehouse Adele Mel B Katie Hopkins Popular this week Anne Kirkbride dead Critics Choice Awards Celebrity Big Brother evictions Josie Cunningham Oscar nominations * TV & Film * Weird News Trending General election 2015 Anne Kirkbride FGM Blue Monday Education Anonymous * Sport Sections Latest Sport Football Formula 1 Boxing Cricket Horse Racing Row Zed Top Sport Louis van Gaal clashes with Manchester United chiefs after BANNING exhausting pre-season tour Most Read in Sport + David De Gea of Manchester United in action Real Madrid transfer target David De Gea says his heart, not money will decide Man United future + Cristiano Ronaldo dresses up as a beggar to surprise and play football with kids in Madrid + Raheem Sterling's contract talks with Liverpool stall after he rejects SECOND offer from club + Louis van Gaal clashes with Manchester United chiefs after BANNING exhausting pre-season tour + Hard hit: Danilo Silva of Porto felt the effects of Laporte's defending Manchester United news and transfers: Red Devils linked with £20m move for La Liga defender + Francis Coquelin makes Arsenal sweat on new deal by refusing to commit to the club Trending Today Cristiano Ronaldo David de Gea Brendan Rodgers Arsene Wenger Gareth Bale Popular this week Liverpool FC Australian Open Arsene Wenger Brendan Rodgers * Technology * Money * Travel * Motoring * Home * News * UK News * Gay marriage * Your Account + Edit Profile + Logout Gay rights timeline: As same-sex weddings become legal, we look back at other milestones * Mar 28, 2014 20:00 * By Tom Parry The first UK same-sex wedding will be a major landmark event in a gay rights battle that has been waged for centuries, as this timeline shows... * Share * Share * Tweet * +1 * Email Getty Images Gay Marriage Britain's first gay wedding takes place when it becomes legal at midnight tonight, at Islington Town Hall, north London. Peter McGraith and David Cabreza, who have been together for 17 years, will tie the knot in an emotional ceremony which will be attended by hundreds of friends and supporters. The witness will be gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who has spent many years fighting for same-sex couples to have the opportunity to wed. He points out that there has only actually been a ban for 43 years since the 1971 Marriage Act, as the previous act in 1949 did not actually require partners to be male and female. Previously, there was no legal prohibition on lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans-gender (LGBT) couples getting married. Tonight’s ceremony will be a major landmark event in a gay rights battle that has been waged for centuries, as this timeline shows... Getty 385 BC - Plato Philosophical about love: Plato 385 BC Plato publishes the Symposium in which Phaedrus, Eryixmachus, Aristophanes and other Greek intellectuals argue that love between males is the highest form. 54 AD Nero becomes Emperor of Rome. Nero married two men, Pythagoras and Sporus, in legal ceremonies, with Sporus accorded the regalia worn by the wives of the Caesars. 342AD - Constantine II and Constans Gay marriage ban: Constantine II and Constans 342 AD The first law against same-sex marriage is passed by the Christian Roman emperors Constantine II and Constans. 1260 In France, gay men are brutally punished if caught having sex. If caught a third time, they are burned to death. Women caught in same-sex acts could be executed as well 1451 Pope Nicholas V enables the Papal Inquisition to persecute gay men. 1451 - Pope Nicholas V Persecution of gay men: Pope Nicholas V 1836 The last known execution for homosexuality in Great Britain. James Pratt and John Smith are hanged at Newgate prison, London after being caught together in private lodgings. 1861 The Offences against the Person Act 1861 is amended to remove the death sentence for “buggery” . The penalty became imprisonment from 10 years to life. 1886 The Criminal Law Amendment Act 1885, outlawing sexual relations between men (but not between women) is given Royal Assent by Queen Victoria. Getty 1895 - Oscar Wilde On trial: Oscar Wilde 1895 The trial of Oscar Wilde results in his being prosecuted under the Criminal Law Amendment Act 1885 for “gross indecency” and sentenced to two years hard labour in prison. 1910 In the United States, Emma Goldman speaks in favour of homosexual rights. She is later described as “the first and only American, to take up the defence of homosexual love before the general public.” 1926 The New York Times is the first major publication to use the word “homosexuality”. 1933 When the Nazis take power in Germany they round up homosexuals and send them to the concentration camps along with Jews. Gay men have to wear a pink triangle on their camp clothes. 1942 Switzerland decriminalizes homosexuality, with the age of consent set at 20. 1954 Mathematical and computer genius Alan Turing, one of the World War Two code-breakers, commits suicide by cyanide poisoning, 18 months after being given a choice between two years in prison or libido-reducing hormone treatment for a year as a punishment for homosexuality. 1959 ITV broadcasts the first gay drama, South, starring Peter Wyngarde. 1964 The first photograph of lesbians on the cover of magazine The Ladder is published, showing two women from the back, on a beach looking out to sea. 1969 - Stonewall Inn Riots: Stonewall Inn 1969 The Stonewall riots take place following a police raid at the Stonewall Inn gay bar in Greenwich Village, New York. These spontaneous and violent demonstrations by members of the gay community lead to the gay liberation movement and the modern fight for gay and lesbian rights in the US. 1971 The Gay Liberation Front (GLF) is recognised as a political movement in Britain. 1974 Kathy Kozachenko becomes the first openly gay American elected to public office. Getty 1978 - Harvey Milk Assassinated: Harvey Milk 1978 Openly gay San Francisco politician Harvey Milk is assassinated by former Supervisor Dan White, who has harboured a long standing grudge because of his campaigning work. 1981 Tennis player Billie Jean King becomes the first prominent professional athlete to come out as a lesbian. Getty 1981 - Billy Jean King Coming out: Billy Jean King 1988 The anti-gay Section 28 is passed in England and Wales while Margaret Thatcher is in power. The amendment states that a local authority “shall not intentionally promote homosexuality or publish material with the intention of promoting homosexuality”. It is later repealed when Labour reclaim 10 Downing Street. 1994 Britain reduces the age of consent for homosexual men to 18. 2000 Britain lifts the ban on openly gay people in the armed forces. Getty 2005 - Elton John and David Furnish Civil partnership: Elton John and David Furnish 2005 Civil partnership laws are passed and come into effect in Britain. The first ceremonies take place across the country. Elton John and partner David Furnish are among those who take the step of legally formalising their relationship. 2009 Carol Ann Duffy is chosen as the first openly lesbian or gay Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom. 2013 Same-sex marriage laws are passed in Britain. Getty 2009 - Carol Ann Duffy Gay Poet Laureate: Carol Ann Duffy March 29 2014 Gay marriage laws finally come into effect in Britain. Thousands of ceremonies are planned across the country from one minute past midnight onwards. * Follow * DailyMirror * @DailyMirror * @ParryTom Recently Published Our Gay Wedding: Stephen Fry, Julie Hesmondhalgh and Gok Wan among those to witness momentous musical vows Jon Snow presents an astounding musical news report as Boy George, Will Young and Paul O’Grady send their congratulations * Les Dennis, Shane Richie, Charlie Condou and other soap stars tweet support for gay marriage * Gay priest first to break Church of England ban on same-sex marriages - to wed his partner Previous Articles Gay marriage is legal from midnight tonight as rainbow flag flies over Whitehall Gay marriage Nick Clegg says whole country should raise a glass to momentous occasion as gay people can now legally marry * One in five British adults 'would refuse invitation to same-sex wedding' Mirror Casino Mirror Casino 100% Welcome Bonus When you play roulette, blackjack and slots at Mirror Casino Related Tags See Also Weddings Gay marriage Gay Recommended in News * UK Independence Party leader Farage prepares to speak on the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, hosted by Vine, in London Referendum on Europe Nigel Farage: EU citizens should not be allowed to vote in EU referendum * Hospitals Shaima al-Sabbagh: Heartbreaking picture shows moments of panic after leading Egyptian female protester dies after being 'shot by police' * Slender Men Supernatural Slender Man: FOUR sightings of spooky 8ft spectre sparks UK paranormal investigation * The Birmingham Hotel in Goldern Hillock Road West Midlands Police Three 'under-age girls' fled hotel in underwear before police child sex raid * British Army Married British Army general on verge of coming out as gay in historic announcement * Horses Mum paralysed and left speaking through iPad after yobs pelted her horse with stones * Matthew Richardson UKIP Ukip general secretary Matthew Richardson boasts: 'We're standing up for bigots' * Rafeeq Atanda Home Office Rafeeq Atanda: Boy aged 5 deported to Nigeria despite high profile campaign to keep him in UK * Mia Daltas MAIN Italy ferry fire MS Norman Atlantic survivor: "I thought I was going to die on that BURNING ship" * The Coleman family Death threats Millionaire father plotted the death of his own family to be with his mistress Most Read in News Mum of eleven Cheryl Prudham 1. Real Life Stories 'Baby machine' mum dumped by love rat husband as she expects her TWELFTH child 2. Jon Venables James Bulger killer Jon Venables joins dating website under different name 3. Autism Mum feared teachers were abusing her autistic son, so she BUGGED his clothes... here's what she found 4. ISIS Haruna Yukawa ISIS beheading: Recap after terror group 'executes Japanese hostage' 5. Lions Heartwarming picture shows lioness HUGGING man who saved her life Personal Injury Injured in an accident at work? Find out if you can claim in 30 seconds Poker Poker Compare the latest poker bonuses Get top poker tips and sign up online Mirror Casino Mirror Casino 100% Welcome Bonus When you play roulette, blackjack and slots at Mirror Casino Recommended on the Mirror * UK Independence Party leader Farage prepares to speak on the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, hosted by Vine, in London Referendum on Europe Nigel Farage: EU citizens should not be allowed to vote in EU referendum * Peter Andre and Katie Price Celebrity Big Brother Katie Price says Peter Andre gained weight during their marriage - she wouldn't tell him to slim down * Villarreal's Gabriel Paulista (R) heads the ball next to Apollon's Gaston Sangoy (L) during their UEFA Europa League group A football match Villarreal FC against Apollon Limassol Transfer gossip round-up Transfer news LIVE: Latest as Arsenal set to confirm Paulista, plus Sunday's news and gossip * Hospitals Shaima al-Sabbagh: Heartbreaking picture shows moments of panic after leading Egyptian female protester dies after being 'shot by police' * Kim Kardashian Kim Kardashian and Kanye West wear matching black Balmain outfits to BET Honors Awards * Danny Welbeck transfer Liverpool and Chelsea to go head-to-head in Mauro Icardi battle? Transfer gossip from Sunday's papers * Slender Men Supernatural Slender Man: FOUR sightings of spooky 8ft spectre sparks UK paranormal investigation * Vicky Pattison Geordie Shore Has Vicky Pattison flashed her boobs on saucy Instagram post? * Josie Cunningham Josie Cunningham brands arch enemy Nicola McLean a ''s***'' in open letter asking model to leave her alone * Half Term Hotel checkout: new Legoland Florida Resort accommodation to open in time for May half-term * View: * Desktop * Mobile * Find a job * Find a home * Find a new home * Find a local business * About Us * Contact Us * Sell Your Story * How to Complain * Corrections & Clarifications * Google Survey * Privacy Statement * Cookie Policy * Terms and Conditions * Paper Subscription to the Daily Mirror * Paper Subscription to the Sunday Mirror * Irish Mirror News UK News Politics World news Weird News Crime Real Life Stories Technology Play Bingo Casino Crosswords Competitions Dating Poker Sport Football Formula 1 Boxing Tennis Rugby League Rugby Union Cricket Golf Horse racing Other Sports Fantasy Football TV TV News TV Previews TV Reviews Celebs Celebrity News US gossip Style TV & film news Weird celeb news Money City News Personal finance Jobs Quids In Opinion News Opinion Sport Opinion 3am Opinion Lifestyle Opinion Lifestyle Health Horoscopes Staying in Going out Reader Offers Sex & Relationships Dieting Cartoons Family Gardening Travel Motoring one pixel graphics one pixel graphics #Affirming Baptists » Feed Affirming Baptists » Comments Feed the Baptist network affirming lesbian and gay Christians * Home * News * Events * About us + Aims + Statement of Affirmation and Belief + Committee members * Links * Resources + Articles + Testimonies + Study Resources * Contact us Search this site ____________________ Submit Donate to Affirming Baptists Please consider making a donation to support our work. The amount is entirely up to you – we are most grateful for whatever contribution you can afford. To do this, please click the PayPal Donate button below – you don't need an existing PayPal account. PayPal - The safer, easier way to pay online. Archive * December 2014 * October 2014 Tags (click to view) Accepting Evangelicals Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists Black Squirrel Credit Union books Changing Attitude Christian organisations Co-ordinator counselling Courage email evangelical Christians Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays fellowship FFLAG George Hopper grace Greenbelt honesty human sexuality Ian Stears-Handscomb Inclusive Church Jeffrey John Jeremy Marks Jesus’ prayer for unity joining Affirming Baptists Joint Co-ordinator Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement LGCM links Martin Stears-Handscomb Mel White Membership & Pastoral Support One Church Brighton OuterSpace Pastoral Advisor prayer priesthood of all believers Rachel & Sarah Hagger-Holt relationships – characteristics of safe space study resources truth Two:23 Network videos vulnerable people « Southern Baptist pastor accepts his gay son EF/Affirm Autumn Conference 2014 » Baptist Union Assembly 2014 – current position on same-sex marriage Published 9 October 2014 The 2014 Assembly of the Baptist Union of Great Britain took place on 10–11 May at the Bethel Convention Centre, West Bromwich. At the 2014 Baptist Union Assembly At the 2014 Baptist Union Assembly There is an ongoing process of conversations, prayerful reflection and debate in the churches and other institutions of the Baptist Union about issues of homosexuality and in particular same-sex marriage, which is now the law of the land. It is recognised that there is a breadth of opinion on these issues, and the process is continuing. At Assembly 2014 an update was shared and the following statement was offered on behalf of the Baptist Steering Group to express where the BU is up to on the journey. This will serve as a backdrop to the continuing conversations and the way that Baptists will seek to behave – Baptist churches are being encouraged to continue to engage with these issues. As a union of churches in covenant together we will respect the differences on this issue which both enrich us and potentially could divide as we seek to live in fellowship under the direction of our Declaration of Principle ‘That our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, is the sole and absolute authority in all matters pertaining to faith and practice, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, and that each church has liberty, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to interpret and administer His Laws.’ Upholding the liberty of a local church to determine its own mind on this matter, in accordance with our Declaration of Principle, we also recognise the freedom of a minister to respond to the wishes of their church, where their conscience permits, without breach of disciplinary guidelines. We affirm the traditionally accepted Biblical understanding of Christian marriage, as a union between a man and a woman, as the continuing foundation of belief in our Baptist Churches. A Baptist minister is required to live and work within the guidelines adopted by the Baptist Union of Great Britain regarding sexuality and the ministry that include ‘a sexual relationship outside of Christian marriage (as defined between a man and a woman) is deemed conduct unbecoming for a minister’. A report on Premier Christian Radio interpreted this as apparently a “seismic shift” in the Baptist Union of Great Britain’s doctrine on sexuality, and said that Baptist Churches would now be offering same-sex marriages. However, in an interview with Adrian Warnock, Stephen Keyworth, the Faith and Society Team Leader and spokesperson for the BU, clarified the situation and explained that no decision had been taken – see www.patheos.com/blogs/adrianwarnock/2014/05/interview-on-same-sex-marriage-with-baptist-union-spokesman-stephen-keyworth. facebook google_plus linkedin mail facebook google_plus linkedin mail twitter rss youtube twitter rss youtube Tagged Assembly, Baptist Steering Group, Baptist Union, equal marriage, marriage, Premier Christian Radio, same-sex marriage, Stephen Keyworth « Southern Baptist pastor accepts his gay son EF/Affirm Autumn Conference 2014 » RSS Log in | Top of page Copyright © 2015 Affirming Baptists. All Rights Reserved. Designed by Phil Gardner/Pangolin Computing Services. This site uses cookies (BUTTON) Okay, thanksFind out more Catholic World Report facebook twitter RSS HOME ARCHIVED ARTICLES EDITORIAL CWR BLOG VIDEO ABOUT US NEWS BRIEFS / RSS FREE eNEWSLETTER DONATE ADVERTISE CWR Archive: Controversies with Coren Controversies with Coren Great Britain and Gay Marriage February 26, 2013 The deconstruction of marriage continues. It didn’t begin with gays asking for marriage, but with the heterosexual world rejecting marriage itself. Michael Coren [2011corenjpg_00000001181.jpg] Christian activists Jonathan Longstaff and Jenny Rose, both from London, protest outside Parliament before a vote on same-sex marriage in London Feb. 5. (CNS photo/Chris Helgren, Reuters) It was only a matter of time, really. Britain, the country of my birth and my home for the first 28 years of my life, has legalized same-sex marriage. The Conservative government had not in any way campaigned for it during the election, and Prime Minister David Cameron had effectively said he would not pursue it, as had the gay lobby and its political champions. The United Kingdom, you see, had introduced civil partnerships for homosexuals in 2004, and one of the reasons the proposal was passed was because its backers gave their word that it was not “a stepping stone but the end of the road.” That was always a lie—they knew it was always a lie, and gay marriage was always the intention. Just as the same people are lying now when they say that nobody will be punished, prosecuted, or dismissed for opposing the phenomenon or refusing to teach and proclaim it. The Guardian newspaper has already featured an article by a national celebrity—a star on the iconic British soap Coronation Street—calling for churches that refuse to perform same-sex weddings to be penalized and worse. In Britain even the B-list actors are political and write acid editorials! The thing is, there were many out and open gay people in Britain who opposed the move, or who said it was premature and gratuitously polarizing. The majority of the Prime Minister’s parliamentary caucus voted against him, including at least two gay MPs, and the grass roots of the party are apoplectic. It is likely that Cameron will lose the next election because of this, in that Tory voters will simply abstain or vote for the less liberal United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP), and that Conservative activists will not campaign. The Church of England has been placed in an impossible position, because the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury is an evangelical, and as head of the established church he publicly and loudly opposes the Prime Minister. The Muslim community is further distanced from the mainstream, and is incredulous at the decision. Then there is, well, us—the Roman Catholics. Britain is only 8 percent Catholic, and in some regions the number falls to below 5 percent. Small, somewhat besieged, historically persecuted, still disliked in much of Scotland, and now to be hit very hard indeed with the bludgeon of that most convenient hammer, called “homophobia.” It’s going to be a difficult time for British Catholics, but then it’s not supposed to be easy being a member of the institution founded by Jesus Christ. They, as well as every other Catholic, need to know the reasons for the Church’s stance on homosexuality and, by extension, so-called gay marriage. Obviously there are biblical and sacramental reasons for marriage being between only one man and one woman, and ones that I don’t have time to discuss here, but we must also remember that Catholic teaching is based on natural law. The entire same-sex marriage argument is not so much about the rights of a sexual minority but the status and meaning of marriage. Indeed, the deconstruction of marriage began not with the gay community asking for the right to marry but with the heterosexual world rejecting marriage itself. The term “common-law marriage” says it all. Marriage is many things but it is never common. Yet with this semantic and legal revolution, desire and convenience have replaced commitment and dedication. The qualifications, so to speak, have been lowered. And one does indeed have to qualify for marriage, just as one, for example, has to qualify for a pension or a military medal. People who have not reached the age of retirement don’t qualify for a pension; people who don’t serve in the armed forces don’t qualify for a military medal. It’s not a question of equality but requirement. A human right is intrinsic, a social institution is not. The four great and historic qualifications have always been number, gender, age, and blood. Two people, male and female, over a certain age, and not closely related. Responsible and moderate societies have sometimes changed the age of maturity but incest has always been condemned and, by its nature, died out because of retardation. As for polygamy, it is making something of a comeback, partly because of gay marriage. Whenever this is mentioned we are accused of using the slippery slope argument. Sorry, some slopes are slippery! Polygamy is an ancient tradition within Islam—and was in Sephardic Judaism and some Asian cultures—and when the precedent of gay marriage is combined with the freedom of religion defense, the courts will have a difficult time rejecting it. At the moment, the Muslim community is not sufficiently politically comfortable to pursue the issue, and the clearly deranged polygamous sects on the aesthetic as well as geographical fringes of society obscure any reasonable debate. But the argument will certainly come and the result is largely inevitable. If love is the only criterion for marriage who are we to judge the love between a man and his wives? The State, though, has a duty to judge and to do so based on its own interests. The most significant of which is its continued existence, meaning that we have to produce children. As procreation is the likely if not essential result of marriage between a man and a woman, it is in the interests of the State to encourage marriage. Of course, lesbian couples can have an obliging friend assist them in having a baby, and gay men can adopt or have some other obliging friend have one for them, but this is hardly the norm and hardly going to guarantee the longevity of a stable society. Just as significant, it smashes the fundamental concept of a child being produced through an act of love. The donation of bodily fluid by an anonymous person, or that obliging friend again, is an act not of love but of lust, indifference, or profit. For the first time in world history we are purposefully creating and legitimizing families where there will be no male or female role model and parent. Anyone who speaks of uncles, aunts, communities and villages raising children has no real understanding of family life. Single-parent families exist and are sometimes excellent and, obviously, not every traditional family is a success. But to consciously create unbalanced families in which children can never enjoy the profound difference between man and woman, mother and father, is dangerous social engineering. So, love and compassion all round, but logic and truth too. And genuine love and genuine compassion are not the same as blandly saying “Yes” to every demand and desire that someone expresses. Scripture is very clear regarding the nature of sex, human intimacy, and God’s plan for his creatures. Of course, some of the Old Testament laws are cultural and cosmetic, which is why Christians do not observe them. But the moral laws are timeless, and no amount of Internet letters and West Wing speeches about what Leviticus says regarding slavery or menstruation can change the fact. Popular ignorance about theology and Hollywood’s inability to be logical are irrelevant. Love, sex, and marriage have consequences and meaning. I fear that the results of this latest social experiment will be seen in the next generation, and then God help us. Sincerely, God help us. About the Author Michael Coren Michael Coren is the host of The Arena, a nightly television show broadcast on the Canadian network Sun News, and a columnist whose work appears in numerous publications across Canada. He is the author of 16 books, the most recent of which is Hatred: Islam’s War on Christianity (Signal Books/Random House). His website is www.michaelcoren.com, where his books can be purchased and he can be booked for speeches. All comments posted at Catholic World Report are moderated. While vigorous debate is welcome and encouraged, please note that in the interest of maintaining a civilized and helpful level of discussion, comments containing obscene language or personal attacks—or those that are deemed by the editors to be needlessly combative and inflammatory—will not be published. Thank you. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. View all Comments The Catholic World Report Blog Jonah and the Call to Constant Conversion The pro-life movement is youthful and strong, abortion rates are falling—but House Republicans don’t seem to get it "Ecumenism is a gift”: Interview with Cardinal Koch Is Catholic teaching on marriage an ideal or a norm? "Avoid immortality"?! C.S. Lewis on Mere Liberty and the Evils of Statism News Briefs 1/24 Pope Francis surprised by misunderstanding of his words on family 1/24 Want Christian unity? Deepen your own conversion, Pope says 1/24 Beatification cause opened for founder of Focolare movement 1/24 Worldliness 'stuns more than grappa on a fast,' Pope tells new cardinals Home About Us Ignatius Press Copyright Contact Us Free eNewsletter Donate Advertise Catholic World Report AdChoices Quantcast #Mail Online Search publisher Mail Online News RSS feed Latest News Stories RSS feed * MailOnline - news, sport, celebrity, science and health stories [USEMAP:1x1_transparent.gif] * Home * News * U.S. * Sport * TV&Showbiz * Australia * Femail * Health * Science * Money * Video * Travel * Fashion Finder * News Home * Arts * Headlines * Pictures * Most read * News Board * Wires * My Profile * Logout * Login DailyMail show ad * * * * * * Shocking moment female activist is gunned down by police during demonstrations on fourth anniversary of Arab Spring * James Bulger killer Jon Venables is signed up to onling dating website contacting single women who do not know his real identity * Greece's Prime Minister Antonis Samaras casts his vote at a polling station in Pylos, southern Greece, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. Greeks were voting Sunday in an early general election crucial for the country's financial future, with the radical left Syriza party of Alexis Tsipras tipped as the favorite to win, although possibly without a large enough majority to form a government. (AP Photo/Nikitas Kotsiaris) Greece's Prime Minister urges voters not to 'push the country to the brink of catastrophe' as they go to polls in today's crucial general election * Calpol can be dangerous - so why make it taste like strawberry sweets? Doctors urge manufacturers to make medicine less appealing to children * 'Irn Bru helped me through Ebola': Scottish NHS nurse reveals how she made full recovery in hospital after catching virus in Sierra Leone * Lots of friends won't make you live longer and families are actually BAD for you, researchers find in new study * Happy ending for Spanish Ebola survivor: Nurse whose dog Excalibur was put down amid fears it had contracted killer disease sparking nationwide protests adopts new puppy called Alma (... which means 'Soul') * UKIP MEP defects to the Tories: Shock as former business spokesman says party is 'pointless' and 'racist'... as Farage's PR chief admits: 'We are a party for bigots' * This party? It is now just a vanity project for Farage the dictator: AMJAD BASHIR on why he has defected from UKIP * A team of archaeologists and anthropologists take notes after starting the excavation work after identifying three unrecorded and unidentified graves in the chapel¿s crypt of the closed order Convent of the Barefoot Trinitarians in Madrid's historic Barrio de las Letras, or Literary Quarter, Spain, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015. Experts searching for the remains of Miguel de Cervantes hope they may be entering the final phase of their nine-month quest to solve the mystery of where the great Spanish writer was laid to rest. The 'Don Quixote' author was buried in 1616 at the Convent but the exact whereabouts of his grave in the tiny convent chapel are unknown. The bones found will be exhumed and analyze, after that, the experts will try to identify the bones using DNA profiling. (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza) Experts examine bones in Spain's quest to find last resting place of Don Quixote author Miguel de Cervantes * RSPCA set to close TV's animal Hospital as donations dry up: Clinic made famous by Rolf Harris to shut after struggling with negative profile * Life on Mars? New NASA photo shows workman fixing space Rover on the Red Planet, conspiracy theorists claim * Drug mule granny 'weeks away from Bali firing squad' after being asked to sign document that formally confirms death sentence * Jamie Oliver's restaurant in Turkey files for bankruptcy after just 14 months after opening in Istanbul * Fears for riot gun PC who killed Mark Duggan as secret file on shooting that sparked London riots is 'lost in the post' * Cliff 'leak' cop let off with a slap on the wrist: Officer given 'management advice' after posting information on Twitter about probe into singer * I turned in the rock star child rapist. So why was I put on trial? Ex-lover of depraved Lostprophets star says she tipped off police 6 YEARS ago... but they accused HER of sex crimes * Euro crisis looms as Greek Left lead poll: Fears victory for anti-austerity party could trigger panic - and force country into bankruptcy * .. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Richard Young /REX (3580867p).. Lorraine Candy.. Elle Style Awards, London, Britain - 18 Feb 2014.. .. 62p-an-hour T-shirt critics 'hate women': Bizarre claim of editor behind backfiring fashion stunt (and don't ask her how 'investigation' is getting on!) * Mrs Google's DNA test for her unborn girl: Wife of internet tycoon has daughter tested for risk of cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's in later life * Disabled man, 40, with the mental age of seven is barred from his regular visits to Legoland over child protection fears * I'm coming out as gay, says married Army general to hit back at the bigots threatening my career: He is a father, he's served in Iraq and Afghanistan - and now he will be most senior soldier to declare his homosexuality * Are you calling me a liar, Mr Miliband? You know I heard you say 'economy will fall off a cliff' fumes ex-Mayor's partner... so be a man and own up to it * Ed Miliband's masterstroke to beat the floods? Let's call in a fleet of oil lorries to 'vacuum up' water Previous Next We do: Youngest gay bride joins dozens of couples across the country on the first day same sex marriage is legal in Britain * Sarah-Louise Billington, 23, exchanged vows with Rebecca Green, 31 * Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act valid in England and Wales at midnight * Couples across country raced to tie knot first as clock strikes 12 * Comes 4 years after Netherlands, 13 years after Catholic country Argentina * Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby welcomed change despite tensions * Tells Church to embrace gay marriage law and spread Christian love * Historic moment marred by study showing 1/5 wouldn't attend wedding * Research also claims Cameron's backing of law will shake Tory support By Mia De Graaf Published: 16:08 GMT, 29 March 2014 | Updated: 08:57 GMT, 30 March 2014 * * * * * * 582 View comments A 23-year-old bride has become the youngest married lesbian after tying the knot with her fiancée on the first day of legalised gay marriage. Sarah-Louise Billington exchanged vows with Rebecca Green, 31, in a ceremony at Dudley Register Office this morning. Both wore white wedding gowns to mark the occasion just hours after the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act came into effect. They joined couples across Britain celebrating the law, passed in July and brought into force today, 13 years after the Netherlands, and four years after Argentina, a Catholic country. Tied the knot: Sarah-Louise Billington, 23, (right) became the youngest married lesbian in the UK after saying 'I do' to her 31-year-old fiancée Rebecca Green at Dudley Register Office today wearing wedding dresses Tied the knot: Sarah-Louise Billington, 23, (right) became the youngest married lesbian in the UK after saying 'I do' to her 31-year-old fiancée Rebecca Green at Dudley Register Office today wearing wedding dresses Dozens flocked to register offices at midnight vying to claim the title of being the first ever to be married in the country. Miss Billington and Miss Green, who have now taken the name Billington-Green, got engaged in Corfu in May 2012, before the Act came into effect, but waited until they could be officially married. Fortunately for the couple from Tipton, West Midlands, who have been together for three years and share an 18-month-old son, the sun shone on their 'emotional' big day. Rebecca said: 'It's absolutely amazing; it was such a nice ceremony and so emotional. 'It feels like we're part of history being one of the first couples to get married. The couple from Tipton, West Midlands, got engaged in Corfu in May last year before the Act was passed The couple from Tipton, West Midlands, got engaged in Corfu in May last year before the Act was passed They shared the day with their 18-month-old son and their families in the beaming sunshine They shared the day with their 18-month-old son and their families in the beaming sunshine 'We had originally arranged a commitment ceremony, which happened last weekend, but as soon as it became possible to legally marry we jumped at the chance. 'We couldn't be happier!' Rebecca, who said she had always know that she was gay having never had a boyfriend, confirmed both families had been extremely supportive in their lifestyle choice. 'Even Sarah's granddad and my grandma, who sadly passed away five months ago, were really understanding, they were just glad we'd found each other,' she said. Now Mrs and Mrs Billington-Green, the pair said their families have been incredibly supportive Now Mrs and Mrs Billington-Green, the pair said their families have been incredibly supportive They joined couples around Britain jumping at the chance to marry on the first day of legalised gay marriage They joined couples around Britain jumping at the chance to marry on the first day of legalised gay marriage Despite all the media attention the beaming brides celebrated their nuptials with a quiet family meal. It was not until March 13 this year when couples were able to register their intention to marry under the Act for the first time. From that date couples who had taken advantage of legal gay marriage abroad were able to officially recognise their unions in the UK. Colourful: In a pink and rainbow-themed ceremony, Phil Robathan (left) and James Preston released doves Colourful: In a pink and rainbow-themed ceremony, Phil Robathan (left) and James Preston released doves The couple were one of five marrying in Brighton today on the first day of legalised gay marriage The couple were one of five marrying in Brighton today on the first day of legalised gay marriage Guests came dressed in style for the emotional ceremony Guests came dressed in style for the emotional ceremony This guest welled up as the ceremony came to a close in Brighton this morning This guest welled up as the ceremony came to a close in Brighton this morning Tears of joy: Phil Robathan (left) and James Preston (centre) hold hands as a guest (right) reacts during their wedding ceremony in Brighton Tears of joy: Phil Robathan (left) and James Preston (centre) hold hands as a guest (right) reacts during their wedding ceremony in Brighton Today, Islington Town Hall hosted three weddings, including that of Louis Monaco and his partner Aarron Erbas at 10am. The 46-year-old is originally from New Jersey in the US but now lives in Angel, north London with Mr Erbas, 23. After the wedding, they celebrated with a reception at a north London pub where they met a year and a half ago. THE MIDNIGHT WEDDINGS: COUPLES RACED TO BE CROWNED FIRST TO WED Since midnight, gay couples across the country have been exchanging vows, including five in Brighton, another four in Westminster, and three in Islington, London. One man who wed his partner at the stroke of 12 said he had never dreamed same sex marriages would happen during his lifetime. John Coffey, who married Bernardo Marti, was the first in the country to request a midnight wedding slot, and believe their union at Westminster City Hall was the first. Earlybirds: Peter McGraith (left) and David Cabreza embraced each other outside Islington Town Hall in the early hours of this morning after their wedding on the stroke of midnight Earlybirds: Peter McGraith (left) and David Cabreza embraced each other outside Islington Town Hall in the early hours of this morning after their wedding on the stroke of midnight 'We are changing one of the absolute most fundamental building blocks of our society - marriage. 'And that's quite daunting, actually,' Mr Coffey told the BBC. They competed for the record with Peter McGraith and David Cabreza in Islington, who are also tied the knot at 00.01 this morning. Mr McGraith and Mr Cabreza, who have been together for 17 years, said they wanted to wed as soon as the marriage laws changed. Mr McGraith said: 'We are thrilled to be getting married. Signing the book: Actor Andrew Wale (left) beamed at friends as his new husband Neil Allard signed the register Signing the book: Actor Andrew Wale (left) beamed at friends as his new husband Neil Allard signed the register 'It is a mark of significant social progress in the UK that the legal distinction between gay and straight relationships has been removed. 'Very few countries afford their gay and lesbian citizens equal marriage rights and we believe that this change in law will bring hope and strength to gay men and lesbians in Nigeria, Uganda, Russia, India and elsewhere, who lack basic equality and are being criminalised for their sexual orientation.' Brighton couple Andrew Wale and Neil Allard also vied for the title with their wedding in the city's famous Royal Pavilion. The couple, who got together after chatting on a bench in the building's gardens seven years ago, won a council competition to marry at the venue. Friends and family flew in from across Europe to attend their wedding, which they have planned in just six weeks amid much media attention. Mr Wale said: 'We had planned on a small wedding before we entered the competition. 'But having the Music Room as our venue, it was obvious that we and to invite as many friends as possible to enjoy the occasion. 'As far as the media interest goes, it's important for us to use the opportunity to raise awareness of the fact that, while we are overjoyed at the change in the law which enables us to marry, there are other people in the world who are not nearly as lucky as us.' 'We're very excited, we have family coming from New Jersey and California,' said Mr Monaco, a clinical psychologist. 'We're going to the Town Hall and we'll have a ceremony there and after we'll be going to a pub where we met. 'Aarron is so excited, he proposed to me. Once I told him we were able to get this date he had the invitations and the reception venue picked out by that night. Britain's first gay fathers Barrie and Tony Drewitt-Barlow married at The Greenwood Hotel in Essex today Britain's first gay fathers Barrie and Tony Drewitt-Barlow married at The Greenwood Hotel in Essex today The wedding was picketed by anti same-sex marriages but they ignored the protests and celebrated in the sun The wedding was picketed by anti same-sex marriages but they ignored the protests and celebrated in the sun Singer David Van Day (fourth from left) and TOWIE star Bobby Cole Norris (fourth from right) attended Singer David Van Day (fourth from left) and TOWIE star Bobby Cole Norris (fourth from right) attended 'We wanted to do it for different reasons. I am older and I didn't think this would happen during my lifetime anywhere in the world. 'For Aarron, he's younger and he only came out last year. It is historic and we thought: "Yes, let's do it".' Meanwhile, broadcaster Sandi Toksvig and her civil partner Debbie Toksvig will renew their vows at a public event at the Royal Festival Hall on the Southbank in London on Saturday morning. 'WE FEEL PRIVILEGED TO BE A PART OF IT': FIRST COUPLE IN NORTH EAST Proud: Mandy Hutchinson, right, and Trisha Doyle will become one of the first lesbian couples to marry in the UK Proud: Mandy Hutchinson, right, and Trisha Doyle will become one of the first lesbian couples to marry in the UK At 10am today Mandy Hutchinson, 43, became Mandy Hutchinson Doyle as she married her partner of four years, Trisha Doyle, 34. They were the first gay couple to marry in South Tyneside on the first day same-sex marriages are legalised in the UK. Miss Hutchinson, of South Shields, South Tyneside, said: 'It is a huge and momentous day for us. 'It is history in the making for the town we live in, and we feel privileged to be a part of it. 'It has been a mad rush leading up to this day because we thought it would be August before the law is passed. 'We had to save, save and save after Christmas once we knew the date was in March. 'Now we will be the same as everyone else. 'There should be no difference in treatment because of sexuality. 'I know there will always be people who won't accept it and will be against it. 'I hope that more gay couples get married, and that soon this will become the norm and won't even be talked about. 'We will be together, bound by law, and this is very important for us. 'If I died at work, for example, everything would then go to Trisha, and that is a comforting thought. 'What's mine is hers.' They will marry at 10am today in front of 130 friends and family members They will marry at 10am today in front of 130 friends and family members Miss Hutchinson, an ASDA delivery driver, has three children, Jade, 19, Holly, 18, and Cole, 16, from a heterosexual marriage before she began a relationship with Miss Doyle. She proposed on the day the divorce papers came through. They now live together in a home of their own. Miss Hutchinson added: 'It won't change the love we have for each other. 'Trisha couldn't love me any more and I couldn't love her any more than I do. 'It has never been an issue with my children. 'It already feels like barriers have come down in society,' said Mandy, who proposed in August 'It already feels like barriers have come down in society,' said Mandy, who proposed in August 'It is just normal to them and they are excited about the wedding. 'On Sunday it is Mother's Day and they have gifts for my wife, then, Trisha as well. 'People have been approaching us and cuddling us. 'This has been something to talk about and already it feels like the barriers have come down in society. 'This is definitely a step in the right direction.' Gay rights campaigners have rejoiced at the move saying Saturday will be a 'momentous day'. Ruth Hunt, acting chief executive of gay rights charity Stonewall, said: 'Saturday is a momentous day for England and Wales, as the first same-sex marriages mark full legal equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. 'The first weddings will send a powerful message to every person in Britain and around the world that you can live and love as you choose, regardless of your sexual orientation.' Helen Brearley (right) and Teresa Millward walked down the aisle after being married at Halifax Register Office Helen Brearley (right) and Teresa Millward walked down the aisle after being married at Halifax Register Office They kissed for cameras to celebrate the moment, which has come an entire 13 years after Holland They kissed for cameras to celebrate the moment, which has come an entire 13 years after Holland The Church of England announced it will no longer resist gay marriage within congregations, and Justin Welby has ordered the Church to accept that this is now law. But changing the law has caused bitter divisions within the church, and research reveals it could deal a blow to the Tories just months ahead of the general election. Last month, bishops attempted to ban clergy from marrying same-sex partners, provoking a backlash among Christian supporters of the change. 'IT IS IMPORTANT FOR US TO HAVE THE SAME TITLE AS HETEROSEXUAL COUPLES': FIRST WOMEN TO MARRY IN UK HAVE HAD A JEWISH CEREMONY The first women to marry were Jewish couple Nikki Pettit, 29, and Tania Ward, 28. Although Miss Ward is not Jewish, they both observe rituals and belong to the Liberal Jewish Synagogue in St John’s Wood, London. Today, they said their vows in a ceremony in Brighton performed by Rabbi Janet Daley. Jewish bride Nikki Pettit (left) and Tania Ward pose for photos after their wedding ceremony in Brighton Jewish bride Nikki Pettit (left) and Tania Ward pose for photos after their wedding ceremony in Brighton First women: Nikki Pettit (left) and Tania Ward will marry in a Jewish ceremony in Brighton today First women: Nikki Pettit (left) and Tania Ward will marry in a Jewish ceremony in Brighton today Bakery chef Miss Ward, who met childcare worker Miss Pettit on a blind date six years ago, said: 'It is important for us to have the same title as a heterosexual couple. 'The way the law was before, it just emphasised the difference of having a civil partnership.' Addressing their marriage, chief executive for Liberal Judaism Rabbi Danny Rich said: 'Liberal Judaism is delighted to be correcting an injustice. 'The issue of equal marriage on which Liberal Judaism led and gave evidence to parliament has always been to us a matter of prophetic justice, in accordance with our founding principles that fairness trumps legal and ritual technicalities. 'We are delighted.' Now, it has emerged one in five Britons is less likely to vote Conservative because of the legalisation of same-sex marriage. According to a ComRes study, just 14 per cent indicated that the policy made them more likely to back David Cameron's party. The Prime Minister offered his congratulations to those who had already tied the knot on 'this historic day', but the poll will come as a blow ahead of May's European elections - with the results suggesting that his support for gay marriage was damaging efforts to persuade Ukip voters to switch to the Conservatives. Sean Adl-Tabatabai, left, and Sinclair Treadway kiss each other after they were announced officially married during a wedding ceremony in the Council Chamber at Camden Town Hall in London, minutes into Saturday Sean Adl-Tabatabai, left, and Sinclair Treadway kiss each other after they were announced officially married during a wedding ceremony in the Council Chamber at Camden Town Hall in London, minutes into Saturday Sandi Toksvig (centre right) and Debbie Toksvig (centre left) dance during a mass sing-along of Bring Me Sunshine as they renew their vows at the Southbank Centre Sandi Toksvig (centre right) and Debbie Toksvig (centre left) dance during a mass sing-along of Bring Me Sunshine as they renew their vows at the Southbank Centre The research, carried out for the Coalition for Marriage - which has campaigned against of same-sex weddings, found 21 per cent of voters were less inclined to vote Conservative in May because of the reform. Some 14 per cent were more likely to back the Tories because of the legalisation of same-sex marriage - and for 55 per cent the change made no difference. The historic moment has also been marred by research claiming about one in five British adults would reject an invitation to a same-sex wedding. MY GAY WEDDING, THE MUSICAL: COUPLE TIE KNOT IN SONG AND DANCE It was a historic milestone marked by gay couples everywhere with midnight vows or the throwing of doves. But one pair celebrated their right to wed in a slightly more flamboyant fashion. Benjamin Till and Nathan Taylor tied the knot today with a musical - with sung vows, sung reading and show-stopping ensembles featuring the whole confregation of family, friends and special guests. Filmmaker Benjamin Till (left) and West End star Nathan Taylor (right) wrote and directed a musical staging in London's Alexandra Palace today during which they exchanged vows and said 'I do' to one another Filmmaker Benjamin Till (left) and West End star Nathan Taylor (right) wrote and directed a musical staging in London's Alexandra Palace today during which they exchanged vows and said 'I do' to one another Attended by celebrities including Gok Wan, the union of West End performer Nathan and filmmaker Ben at London's Alexandra Palace was entirely their own creation. And the performance, titled Our Gay Wedding: The Musical, was filmed for television and will be commentated by Stephen Fry as it screens next week on Channel 4. Benjamin and Nathan said: 'We’ve been together for nearly 12 years, and never thought we’d get the chance to get married, for real. 'Doing what we both do for a living has meant that we’ve spent our entire lives expressing emotion through song, so getting married in a musical, particularly one that we’re writing ourselves, felt like the most natural thing in the world.' John Hay, Commissioning Editor, Arts, said: 'We are proud to be marking a huge milestone for gay rights – a cause that has long been close to Channel 4’s heart. 'I’m enormously grateful to Benjamin and Nathan for sharing their day with us, and for the talent, creativity and generosity they’re bringing to this amazing piece of work.' A survey by BBC Radio 5 live found 68 per cent of 1,007 people agreed gay marriage should be legal. Of those questioned, 26 per cent opposed it, and 22 per cent said they would not attend a ceremony. Catholic Voices claims the findings show people remain 'deeply uncomfortable' with admitting their honest feelings about same-sex marriage. But David Cameron has blasted opponents to the bill, saying he ‘didn't want to see people's love divided by law’. Supportive: Justin Welby has caused waves among conservative clergy members by backing the change Rabbi Danny Rich, of Liberal Judaism, has hailed the change as 'correcting an injustice' Supportive: Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has caused waves among conservative clergy members by backing the law, and Rabbi Danny Rich, of Liberal Judaism, has hailed the change as 'correcting an injustice' Celebration: Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said there will be a rainbow flag flown from the Cabinet Office Celebration: Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said there will be a rainbow flag flown from the Cabinet Office Mr Cameron said: ‘Making marriage available to everyone goes beyond individual relationships, proposals and weddings– it says something deeper too about the sort of country we are. ‘This is a country with proud traditions of tolerance, respect and equal worth. AROUND THE WORLD: WHEN GAY MARRIAGE WAS LEGALISED ELSEWHERE 2001: Netherlands 2003: Belgium 2005: Spain, Canada 2006: South Africa 2009: Norway, Sweden 2010: Portugal, Iceland, Argentina 2012: Denmark 2013: Uruguay, New Zealand, France 'With this reform we are being true to those values. ‘In turn we are sending a powerful message to young people growing up who are uncertain about their sexuality: we are telling them that they are equal.’ Mr Cameron has previously admitted gay marriage has been deeply unpopular within Tory ranks. But in an article in PinkNews ahead of the first ceremonies taking place on Saturday, Mr Cameron said he was ‘pleased’ that the commitment people make to each other will now be recognised as equal. The Prime Minister said: ‘I backed this change because I didn't want to see people's love divided by law. 'There is something special about marriage. ‘It is a declaration of commitment, responsibility and stability that helps to bind families. 'The values of marriage are give and take, support and sacrifice – and it is right that same sex couples will now be able to be a part of it.’ Moss Bros celebrated the change with a special window display yesterday, and cards are on sale nationwide Moss Bros celebrated the change with a special window display yesterday, and cards are on sale nationwide Today, Moss Bros celebrated the change with a special window display, and cards are on sale nationwide Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, who will attend the McGraith-Cabreza wedding tonight, said: 'Peter and David are personal friends and long-time gay rights campaigners. I am delighted to be their witness on this historic day. 'Their marriage is a celebration for them and for the whole lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. 'It marks the end of the ban on same-sex marriage and is another hugely significant milestone in the quest for lesbian and gay equality. 'THIS HAS BEEN A LONG TIME COMING': AFTER 8 YEARS, THEY CAN SAY 'I DO' Glenn Smith and Craig Shelton, soon to be Mr and Mr Shelton, have been waiting for eight years to tie the knot Glenn Smith and Craig Shelton, soon to be Mr and Mr Shelton, have been waiting for eight years to tie the knot Glenn Smith, 38, and Craig Shelton, 27, will tie the knot on the first day the legislation comes into force. The couple raced to pull together a ceremony for all their friends and family as soon as they heard about the law change. They met through friends eight years ago and have been waiting since then for the law to be passed to enjoy their big day. Glenn, a van driver, said: 'It’s very important to us both to have our relationship sealed on a formal basis. 'We shall be walking up together to say ‘I do’. 'We wanted to do it for a while but decided to wait because we heard this legislation was being debated, we're so happy it has been passed.' Glenn and Craig, who works for a funeral directors, will be exchanging rings at the 4pm service at Gravesend Old Town Hall, in Kent. Around 50 friends and family are invited to the nuptials and there will be about 120 at the reception Glenn said: 'I am nervous and worried I will fluff my lines, but Craig is more laid back. 'This has been a long time coming, but it has been worth the wait. 'I know the Church of England is against same-sex ceremonies. But everyone is entitled to their own opinion.' The partners, who live in their own house in Norfleet, Kent, have both bought new suits for the wedding and Glenn will be taking Craig’s surname. 'The legalisation of same-sex marriage ends the last major legal discrimination against gay people in England and Wales. 'Scotland will follow later this year. Sadly, Northern Ireland remains a bastion of homophobia. 'Same-sex marriage is an unstoppable global trend because love and commitment are universal human traits, regardless of sexual orientation or nationality. Around the world: Argentina approved same-sex marriage in 2010, one of the first ten nations to do so Around the world: Argentina approved same-sex marriage in 2010, one of the first ten nations to do so Mary Davidson, 27 (left), and Monica Rozgay, 29, said 'I do' in Seattle on December 9, 2012, four days after gay marriage was legalised by Washington state Mary Davidson, 27 (left), and Monica Rozgay, 29, said 'I do' in Seattle on December 9, 2012, four days after gay marriage was legalised by Washington state The latest country to legalise gay marriage was France in 2013. Here Vincent Aubin and Bruno Boileau, the first gay couple to marry in France, celebrate at Montpellier City Hall on May 29, 2013 The latest country to legalise gay marriage was France in 2013. Here Vincent Aubin and Bruno Boileau, the first gay couple to marry in France, celebrate at Montpellier City Hall on May 29, 2013 'No ignorance or prejudice can hold back the triumph of love.' Rainbow flags will be hung all over the country to celebrate the occasion. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said a multi-coloured flag - adopted as a symbol of the gay community in 1970s San Francisco - will be flown above the Cabinet Office and Scotland Office from today. HOW THE NATION CELEBRATED CIVIL PARTNERSHIPS LEGALISED IN 2005 Landmark: Sir Elton John wed his partner David Furnish in a civil partnership ceremony in 2005 Landmark: Sir Elton John wed his partner David Furnish in a civil partnership ceremony in 2005 On December 5, 2005, The Civil Partnership Act 2004 came into effect in the UK, allowing gay or lesbian couples to have legal recognition of their relationship, and the same rights as married couples. Due to 'banns' in place, the first ceremonies did not take place until December 21. Any couples who enter into a civil partnership obtain the new legal status of 'Civil Partners', instead of the traditional husband and wife status. Sir Elton John and David Furnish famously celebrated the landmark ruling by tying the knot on December 21, 2005, in an emotional civil partnership ceremony at the Windsor Guildhall after 12 years together. Only a handful of guests witnessed the private ceremony - held in the same venue where the Prince of Wales and Camilla Parker Bowles married in April. Among them were close friends artist Sam Taylor-Wood and her husband, art dealer Jay Jopling. Sir Elton's mother Sheila and stepfather Fred, and Mr Furnish's parents Gladys and Jack, who flew in from their native Canada, were also there, as was Sir Elton and Mr Furnish's black and white spaniel Arthur. The happy couple emerged from the Guildhall arm-in-arm after the 20-minute ceremony. Instead of their usual colourful attire, they wore sober black morning suits - Sir Elton's one flamboyant touch was a diamond brooch on his lapel. The ceremony was conducted by registrar Clair Williams, who also presided over the union between Charles and Camilla. The act was not met without controversy, as the government had expected. Christian groups spoke out against civil partnerships, and committed mixed sex couples who live together argue that they do not receive the same rights as 'married' same sex couples now do. Read more: * David Cameron: I¿m proud that allowing gay couples to marry will strengthen this country Share or comment on this article * * * * * * MOST WATCHED NEWS VIDEOS * Previous * 1 * 2 * 3 * Next * [video-undefined-24F8A6F500000578-670_154x115.jpg] Sassy daughter REFUSES to remove herself from table * [video-undefined-24F991EB00000578-805_154x115.jpg] Beating the Beatles! Toddler sings 'Love Me Do' with dad * [video-undefined-24F8DBA700000578-306_154x115.jpg] Woman films arrest before realising it's an attempted... * [video-undefined-2508E07B00000578-161_154x115.jpg] Hours of fun! Peekaboo games has twins in fits of giggles * [video-undefined-24F9BB8B00000578-909_154x115.jpg] This getaway car's on fire! Firefighters face challenging... * [video-undefined-24FA21DF00000578-292_154x115.jpg] Dramatic footage shows Stornoway sea rescue of sinking ship * [video-undefined-2500C81F00000578-980_154x115.jpg] Behind the scenes at the Cadbury chocolate factory (related) * [video-undefined-24FBB09E00000578-156_154x115.jpg] Supporters rally around Tom Crawford to stop bailiffs * [video-undefined-24FBF99400000578-777_154x115.jpg] Meet the show jumping rabbits taking Harrogate by storm * [video-undefined-2500AC3F00000578-409_154x115.jpg] She said yes! Man proposes after Djokovic match * [video-undefined-24F9F0C000000578-885_154x115.jpg] It's official! These pups are the cutest things you'll see... * [video-undefined-2508F5F400000578-680_154x115.jpg] Shaima al-Sabbagh protesting moments before she was shot * Shocking moment female socialist activist is gunned down by... * The way things used to be: Incredible pictures of early... * Teenager hacked to death with a machete outside a pub was... * jihadi john jokes 1.JPG How Japan is fighting back at Jihadi John with MEMES: Images... * Adrian Chiles is SACKED by ITV with immediate effect halfway... * Pictured: Horrific injuries suffered by man mauled by three... * Disabled man, 40, with the mental age of seven is barred... * For sale, Diana's last love nest... for £70m: Al Fayed's... * composite.jpg Japanese Prime Minister says there is a 'high' chance ISIS... * As Hershey's launches a legal battle to drive Cadbury out of... * Terror in the skies: The shocking moment a hot air balloon... * What would YOU do? The moment shopkeeper claims he 'snatches... MOST READ NEWS Previous Next * ● * ● * ● [btn_add-your-comment.png] [icon_comments_74.png] Comments (582) Share what you think * Newest * Oldest * Best rated * Worst rated View all The comments below have been moderated in advance. The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline. We are no longer accepting comments on this article. [topcommenter.png] Who is this week's top commenter? Find out now More top stories Bing (*) Site ( ) Web Enter search term: ____________________ (BUTTON) Search * Like DailyMail * Follow MailOnline * Follow DailyMail * +1 DailyMail DON'T MISS * 'I've shed 3 inches around my waist': Kelly Brook shows off weight loss as she leads British stars at pre-SAG Awards Transformed * Lohan.jpg Photoshop fail? Lindsay Lohan accused of altering her waistline as fans notice strange distortions in new underwear selfie Suspiciously toned * Sheridan Smith spotted near her North London home wearing tight blue jeans and a leather jacket. Cleavage, knickers, wedges.\nNoble Draper Pictures.\n**BYLINE: OMAR/NOBLE/DRAPER** Sheridan Smith 'dating Hollyoaks star Greg Wood 'months after father of three separates from wife of ten years Last seen at NTAs * What a collaboration! Rihanna announces first new music in over two years featuring Paul McCartney and Kanye West Surprised her fans * Ice to see you: Geri Halliwell cosies up to fiancé Christian Horner on the slopes as they attend annual ski race in Austria * Picture Shows: Holly Willoughby January 25, 2015\n \n Celebrities seen leaving the popular Nobu Restaurant in London, UK.\n \n Non Exclusive\n WORLDWIDE RIGHTS\n \n Pictures by : FameFlynet UK © 2015\n Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049\n Email : info@fameflynet.uk.com Svelte new mum Holly Willoughby and her This Morning sub Christine Bleakley are in style sync as they catch up over dinner Caught up over sushi * 24.JANUARY.2015 RIHANNA AND TYRA BANKS SEEN IN THIS CELEBRITY TWITTER PICTURE POSTED VIA INSTAGRAM! BYLINE MUST READ: SUPPLIED BY XPOSUREPHOTOS.COM *Xposure Photos does not claim any Copyright or License in the attached material. Any downloading fees charged by Xposure are for Xposure's services only, and do not, nor are they intended to, convey to the user any Copyright or License in the material. By publishing this material , the user expressly agrees to indemnify and to hold Xposure harmless from any claims, demands, or causes of action arising out of or connected in any way with user's publication of the material* **UK CLIENTS MUST CALL PRIOR TO TV OR ONLINE USAGE PLEASE TELEPHONE +44 208 344 2007** 'This is a random act of fierceness!' Tyra Banks dons a 'black girls rock' slogan T-shirt as she cosies up to Rihanna for impromptu photoshoot * NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 15: NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 15;Singer Mel B and Stephen Belafonte are seen walking in Soho on January 15, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images) 'Someone is trying to wreck our marriage': Mel B hits back over claims she was held hostage by husband Stephen Belafonte at their London home * 'I've heard Kieran's name 37,000 million times in this house': Calum Best slams Katie Price for her endless boyfriend-bashing comments * Taylor Swift Instagram Taylor Swift shows love for Bill Murray in sweatshirt with his name on it... as she poses beside the Haim sisters in Hawaii Big fan * * Heather Where DO you put your ski pass, Heather? Jaw-dropping photo of star of TV show The Jump which begs a very awkward question Looked very toned * Malibu, CA - A pensive-looking Bruce Jenner goes on a solo Starbucks trip in Malibu. The former Olympian will reportedly address his more feminine appearance on the upcoming season of KUWTK, and sources say that he is fighting with Kardashian matriarch Kris Jenner on how the issue will be handled. Bruce, who prefers to stay out of the limelight and keep to himself, has been under a media microscope and has been constantly scrutinized over his changing looks. \nAKM-GSI January 24, 2015\nTo License These Photos, Please Contact :\nSteve Ginsburg\n(310) 505-8447\n(323) 423-9397\nsteve@akmgsi.com\nsales@akmgsi.com\nor\nMaria Buda\n(917) 242-1505\nmbuda@akmgsi.com\nginsburgspalyinc@gmail.com Bruce Jenner shows off his ever-growing ponytail as he pops out to pick up a coffee in Malibu Hiding his locks under a baseball cap * Real-life Cinderella: Downton Abbey star Joanne Froggatt ditches maid attire for red carpet glamour at pre-SAG Awards party A Hollywood star * LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 24: Actress Felicity Jones attends the 26th Annual Producers Guild Of America Awards at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza on January 24, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) Felicity Jones sparkles in enchanting bejewelled silver gown at Producers Guild Awards The Theory Of Everything actress stepped out in another stunning gown * PARK CITY, UT - JANUARY 24: Actress Margot Robbie attends the "Z for Zachariah" Premiere during the 2015 Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 2015 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Sonia Recchia/Getty Images for Sundance) Rocking her winter wardrobe! Margot Robbie wraps up in knit jumper and skin-tight leather leggings as she attends her first Sundance Film Festival * 30.SEPTEMBER.2014 - PARIS - FRANCE\nKAYA SCODELARIO\nCELEBRITIES ATTENDING CHANEL'S SPRING-SUMMER 2015 READY-TO-WEAR COLLECTION FASHION SHOW HELD AT THE GRAND PALAIS IN PARIS, FRANCE DURING PARIS FASHION WEEK! \nBYLINE MUST READ : XPOSUREPHOTOS.COM\n***UK CLIENTS - PICTURES CONTAINING CHILDREN PLEASE PIXELATE FACE PRIOR TO PUBLICATION ***\n**UK CLIENTS MUST CALL PRIOR TO TV OR ONLINE USAGE PLEASE TELEPHONE 44 208 344 2007 ** Skins star Kaya Scodelario confirmed as female lead in Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales movie Filming will start in February * ****Ruckas Videograbs**** (01322) 861777 *IMPORTANT* Please credit BBCfor this picture. 24/01/15 The Voice Grabs from the show tonight Office (UK) : 01322 861777 Mobile (UK) : 07742 164 106 **IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ** The video grabs supplied by Ruckas Pictures always remain the copyright of the programme makers, we provide a service to purely capture and supply the images to the client, securing the copyright of the images will always remain the responsibility of the publisher at all times. Standard terms, conditions & minimum fees apply to our videograbs unless varied by agreement prior to publication. She's got them spinning around! YouTube sensation Esmee Denters makes music comeback as she impresses ALL four judges on The Voice UK * SPOILER ALERT: EastEnders' Mick Carter decides to take matters into his own hands as he drags Dean Wicks to the allotments after wife's rape ordeal * bianca gascoigne.JPG Instagram 'This is a career for me': Gazza's stepdaughter Bianca Gascoigne is working as the manager of a London strip club In charge of the dancers * Frances Bean Cobain, left, daughter of Kurt Cobain and executive producer of the documentary film "Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck," poses with her mother and Cobain's widow Courtney Love at the premiere of the film at The MARC Theatre during the 2015 Sundance Film Festival on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) Courtney Love and daughter Frances Bean share a hug as they are seen together for first time in FIVE years... at premiere of Kurt Cobain documentary * * jennifer lawrence keira knightley Jennifer Lawrence stuns in plunging nude gown while pregnant Keira Knightley covers up in floral smock dress at Producers Guild Awards * Farrah Abraham shows ample cleavage wearing plunging dress in Las Vegas after kissing new boyfriend Simon Saran at toga party * We want to ride our bicycles! Naomi Watts enjoys family outing as she gears up to receive CDGA 2015 Lacoste spotlight award Quality family time * -Chicago, IL - 01/23/2015 - Kylie Jenner Hosts, Nick Cannon DJs the Grand Opening of Sugar Factory American Brasserie in Chicago\\n\\n-PICTURED: Kylie Jenner\\n-PHOTO by: Sharon Gaietto/startraksphoto.com\\n-MS_247082\\nEditorial - Rights Managed Image - Please contact www.startraksphoto.com for licensing fee\\nStartraks Photo\\nNew York, NY\\nFor licensing please call 212-414-9464 or email sales@startraksphoto.com\\nStartraks Photo reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image, and where appropriate, the cost of collection and/or statutory damages. What a sweetheart! Kylie Jenner looks lovely in crochet dress as she hosts grand opening of Sugar Factory in Chicago Handed out sweets * 'She is OBSESSED with Perez!': Nadia Sawalha slams Katie Hopkins for on-going tension in the Celebrity Big Brother house Fierec backbiting * 'If people think they've seen all I can do, they're wrong!': Half-naked Perez Hilton promises MORE drama after surviving eviction in Celebrity Big Brother * Youthful Sharon Stone shimmers in a gold halterneck gown... as Brad Pitt picks up a gong at Producers Guild Awards Stands out * 'I took something seen as a disadvantage and turned it into a positive': Rebel Wilson opens up on using fuller figure to her advantage in Hollywood * 50 Shades Grey Beyonce Puff.jpg 'Here's a hardcore sex scene, hey, nice to meet you': Fifty Shades Of Grey director Sam Taylor-Johnson tells of moment she got tied up showing Beyoncé 'explicit' clip * Mystery girl revealed! Jason Segel's new girlfriend is photographer Alexis Mixter No longer a mystery * sophia bush Sophia Bush flashes toned stomach and cleavage at pre-SAG bash... as she steps out after Chad Michael Murray's wedding Tiny crop top * Katharine McPhee sizzles in black leather dress with sheer neckline as Sarah Hyland glitters in gold at pre-SAG Awards event * **EXCLUSIVE IMAGES** TOWIES FERNE MCCAN AND BOYFRIEND CHARLIE SIMS SEEN LEAVING TARANTINOS RESTAURANT IN ESSEX-SATURDAY 24TH JANUARY 2015 - RA-PIX.CO.UK - 07793221861 - CONTACT RALPH PETTS -\\nRALPH@RA-PIX.CO.UK TOWIE's Ferne McCann keeps it casual in knitted black dress and ankle boots as she enjoys dinner date with boyfriend Charlie Sims Kept things simple * Nikki Reed poses for a portrait to promote the "Catdance Film Festival" at the Eddie Bauer Adventure House during the Sundance Film Festival on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Victoria Will/Invision/AP) 'Life is really great right now!' Nikki Reed keeps coy on engagement rumours as she poses with a cute cat at Sundance Is she or isn't she? * amberroseU guys like me and @nickcannon's matching Ferraris? #HisandHers #Ncredible ?? 'We are just friends!' Amber Rose sets record straight about Nick Cannon after posting snap of them with matching Ferraris * PARK CITY, UT - JANUARY 24: Actress Lena Dunham attends the Power Of Story Panel: Serious Ladies during the 2015 Sundance Film Festival at the Egyptian Theatre on January 24, 2015 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Sonia Recchia/Getty Images for Sundance) Girls unite! Lena Dunham embraces Kristen Wiig after the two speak on women in television panel at Sundance Strong characters * Heidi Klum Sydney Puff.jpg So much to see, so little time! Heidi Klum unleashes inner tourist as she strolls about Sydney before climbing the Harbour Bridge and dashing off to the zoo * Always ready for her close-up! Cindy Crawford, 48, shows off classic beauty in casual outfit on coffee run Cindy gave a style class in laid-back elegance * You mean this is free? Winona Ryder stocks up on gifting suite goodies as she promotes new film at Sundance The 43-year-old looked radiant and glowing * Fashionable friends! Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Garner wear elegant shift dresses to attend Molly Sims' baby shower Celebration * ****Ruckas Videograbs**** (01322) 861777 *IMPORTANT* Please credit BBCfor this picture. 24/01/15 The Voice Grabs from the show tonight Office (UK) : 01322 861777 Mobile (UK) : 07742 164 106 **IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ** The video grabs supplied by Ruckas Pictures always remain the copyright of the programme makers, we provide a service to purely capture and supply the images to the client, securing the copyright of the images will always remain the responsibility of the publisher at all times. Standard terms, conditions & minimum fees apply to our videograbs unless varied by agreement prior to publication. 'He's really distracting': Rita Ora is left flustered by 'handsome' hopeful Emmanuel Nwamadi on The Voice UK She's was quick to pinch some of the acts * 22.JANUARY.2015 - LONDON - UK\n*** EXCLUSIVE ALL ROUND PICTURES WITH A £100 MINIMUM FEE PER PICTURE FOR UK MAGAZINES*** \nTOWIE'S CHLOE SIMS AND ELLIOT WRIGHT GOT INTO A BIG ARGUMENT AFTER THE 2015 NTA'S OUTSIDE LIBERTINE NIGHTCLUB. AFTER HAPPILY ARRIVING AT THE VENUE, THE PAIR THEN CAME OUTSIDE AND AFTER INITIALLY KISSING, THEY GOT INTO A HEATED ARGUMENT. CHLOE WAS SEEN CRYING AND LOOKING VERY UPSET. AFTER MORE ARGUMENTS INSIDE THE CLUB, ELLIOT IS SAID TO HAVE THROWN A DRINK OVER CHLOE, AND SMASHED HER PHONE BY STOMPING ON IT. CHLOE THEN RUSHED OUT VERY SHAKEN, FOLLOWED BY A CONFRONTATIONAL ELLIOT. THE PAIR AND HAD TO BE SEPARATED BY CLUB SECURITY. CHLOE LEFT ALONE IN A CAB, CRYING AND WITH A SMASHED IPHONE!\nBYLINE MUST READ : XPOSUREPHOTOS.COM\n***UK CLIENTS - PICTURES CONTAINING CHILDREN PLEASE PIXELATE FACE PRIOR TO PUBLICATION ***\n**UK CLIENTS MUST CALL PRIOR TO TV OR ONLINE USAGE PLEASE TELEPHONE 442083442007** TOWIE's Chloe Sims was reduced to tears after Elliott Wright 'smashed her phone' during dramatic bust-up at the NTAs Spotted crying * Mandatory Credit: Photo by Startraks Photo/REX (4381463d)\n Jodie Foster and Alexandra Hedison\n Jodie Foster and Alexandra Hedison out and about, New York, America - 24 Jan 2015\n Jodie Foster and Wife Alexandra Hedison Walking in the West Village\n The look of love! Jodie Foster gazes adoringly at wife Alexandra Hedison during low-key New York outing The 52-year-old's eyes were full of love * lady gaga pole.jpg 'Hungover pole dancing class!' Lady Gaga strips to underwear to show off her risque moves during BFF's bachelorette weekend Working her magic * Rollerblading | Venice beach A long way from Winterfell! Maisie Williams has the 'best day ever' rollerblading along Venice Beach Game Of Thrones star used a selfie stick * She's Funny That Way Official Trailer #1 (2015) - Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston Movie Jennifer Aniston gives therapy to a prostitute who Owen Wilson falls for... as they reunite in She's Funny That Way trailer Premieres in April * Fergie and her husband Josh Duhamel take their son Axl to a birthday party in Pomona, CA. Fergie wore a Chanel fanny pack and carried her Chanel diaper bag, and held onto Axl's hand with the other. Axl wore head-to-toe tiger stripes in an Adidas tracksuit. Josh was seen carrying a couple of gift boxes and a large giraffe.\n\nPictured: Fergie and Axl Duhamel\nRef: SPL933738 240115 \nPicture by: Fern / Splash News\n\nSplash News and Pictures\nLos Angeles: 310-821-2666\nNew York: 212-619-2666\nLondon: 870-934-2666\nphotodesk@splashnews.com\n Her little tiger! Fergie dresses Axl in animal print outfit and carries him to birthday party Made their way to a birthday party * selenagg_.jpg Selena Gomez further fuels rumours of romance with Zedd... as he holds her in his arms in new elevator photo Affectionate canoodling adds more to claims * Stunning screen siren! Kerry Washington wows in feminine floral gown at Producers Guild Awards She turned heads in a strapless floral dress * LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 24: Kylie Minogue is awarded Australian of the Year in the UK at Quantas Australia Day Gala Dinner at Australia House on January 24, 2015 in London, England. Pic Credit: Dave Benett Definitely Can't Get You Out Of My Head! Kylie Minogue stuns in plunging semi-sheer gown as she is named Australian of the Year in the UK * She CAN do demure! Kim Kardashian covers up her famous figure in black gown as she supports Kanye West at BET Honors They both looked chic * So fabulous! Kendall and Kris Jenner cut stylish figures as they enjoy a leisurely dinner in Paris with Balmain's head designer Ready for Fashion Week. * 5 Seconds of Summer poses for a photograph after winning the ARIA for Song Of The Year at the 28th ARIA Awards, at The Star, in Sydney, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2014. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett) NO ARCHIVING 5SOS who? Aussie rockers 5 Seconds Of Summer have application to trademark their nickname rejected They're one of the hottest boy bands in the world * ****Ruckas Videograbs**** (01322) 861777\n*IMPORTANT* Please credit BBCfor this picture.\n24/01/15\nThe Voice\nGrabs from the show tonight\nOffice (UK) : 01322 861777\nMobile (UK) : 07742 164 106\n**IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ** The video grabs supplied by Ruckas Pictures always remain the copyright of the programme makers, we provide a service to purely capture and supply the images to the client, securing the copyright of the images will always remain the responsibility of the publisher at all times.\nStandard terms, conditions & minimum fees apply to our videograbs unless varied by agreement prior to publication. Black Lace frontman Dene Michael is supported by Coronation Street's Les Battersby as he fails to get through the blind auditions on The Voice UK * Got bored of sunbathing? Miley Cyrus writhes and twerks against a pole as she puffs on suspicious-looking cigarette Often wears leafy logo * In a spot of bother! Justin Bieber hides his face behind palm tree on a hike while suffering bad skin day The pop star struck an unusually timid pose * Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Shaw/REX (4277963h).. Ella Eyre.. Capital Radio Jingle Bell Ball, O2 Arena, London, Britain - 07 Dec 2014.. .. 'Please stop sending me d*** pics': Singer Ella Eyre goes on a massive Twitter rant after receiving graphic images Inundated on Snapchat * Rose Byrne tennis Puff.jpg 'He just wants to see a kangaroo or koala!' Rose Byrne takes her Bobby Cannavale Down Under to see the wildlife and cuddles up to him courtside at the Open * blake shelton snl 'Yes, I have been drinking!' Blake Shelton calls himself 'the Justin Bieber of country music' as he hosts and performs on SNL * ChrissyT.jpg 'It hurts so bad!' Chrissy Teigen wears just a towel while showering herself with milk to relieve jalapeño burn After breaking herr foot * GIRL ABOUT TOWN: Now Kate's engulfed in a weathervane storm The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have removed an English flag on their weathervane * GIRL ABOUT TOWN: Jennifer Lawrence set to attend Vanity Fair event with Chris Martin Gwyneth is already upset that ex-husband Chris Martin has moved on * GIRL ABOUT TOWN: Ex-Made in Chelsea star Amber Atherton admits she has a thing for Etonians The 23-year-old is seeing Alex Coleridge * S Club heaven! Rachel Stevens wows in black leather and spray-on jeans as she steps out in Manchester during Strictly tour * ****Ruckas Videograbs**** (01322) 861777 *IMPORTANT* Please credit Channel 5 for this picture. 23/01/15 Celebrity Big Brother DAY 17 SEEN HERE: Katie Price kicking her legs out as she says she wants to stay up and party late last night Grabs from overnight in the CBB house Office (UK) : 01322 861777 Mobile (UK) : 07742 164 106 **IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ** The video grabs supplied by Ruckas Pictures always remain the copyright of the programme makers, we provide a service to purely capture and supply the images to the client, securing the copyright of the images will always remain the responsibility of the publisher at all times. Standard terms, conditions & minimum fees apply to our videograbs unless varied by agreement prior to publication. 'We're talking an all-out cat fight': CBB to 'send Katie Price's ex-BFF Jane Pountney (who slept with her husband Kieran) into the house' * PARK CITY, UT - JANUARY 23: Actress Margot Robbie attends Sabra Hummus Kickoff Party - Sundance - 2015 Park City on January 23, 2015 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Michael Bezjian/Getty Images for Sabra Dipping Co.) A vision in white! Margot Robbie dons fur coat with skinny jeans and boots as she braves chilly weather at Sundance Film Festival Wrapped up warm * Some of the cast ofthe new Red Productions "Ordinary Lies" went for a meal at Gusto Restaurant in Manchester city centre before catching up with the crew at Lock 91 Bar on Friday night 24.1.15...... Michelle Keegan. That's a wrap! Michelle Keegan shows off her slim legs in black thigh-high boots as she dons fur collar coat for a night out * 'I wish I'd killed more': American Sniper Chris Kyle said his only regret was that US lives were lost because he shot too few Iraqis Amid film controversy * Britney Spears flashes toned tum when strong gust of wind blows her plunging blouse up A blast of wind sent the singer's peplum top upward * Make-under: Amy Childs oozes in glamour as she makes rare decision to cover up her curves and embrace new demure look * MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 27: Rebecca Judd arrives at the 2014 Logie Awards at Crown Palladium on April 27, 2014 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Graham Denholm/WireImage) Myer, what an insult! WAG Bec Judd hits out at speculation she is to star in I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! after fans ask if lilac dress is hers * The couple that dresses together... Kim Kardashian and Kanye West make a bleary-eyed arrival in Washington DC as they coordinate in fur trimmed coats * Heidi Klum Elle McPherson Puff.jpg 'I don't really want to know': Heidi Klum says she doesn't have a clue why Bendon chose her to replace Elle Macpherson as she lands in Australia * 24.JANUARY.2015 - PARIS - FRANCE\nKENDALL JENNER ARRIVES AT ROISSY AIRPORT IN PARIS. AFTERWARDS KENDALL ALONG WITH HER MOTHER KRIS JENNER ARRIVING AT GEORGE V HOTEL BEFORE LUNCHING TOGETHER AT L'AVENUE RESTAURANT.\n BYLINE MUST READ : ABACA/XPOSUREPHOTOS.COM\n*AVAILABLE FOR UK ONLY*\n***UK CLIENTS - PICTURES CONTAINING CHILDREN PLEASE PIXELATE FACE PRIOR TO PUBLICATION ***\n**UK CLIENTS MUST CALL PRIOR TO TV OR ONLINE USAGE PLEASE TELEPHONE 0208 344 2007** Ooh la la! Kris Jenner channels Parisian chic in black tassled blazer and nude heels as she enjoys shopping spree in France * Sherman Oaks, CA - Redhead beauty Amy Adams enjoys a fun-filled Saturday with her husband Darren Le Gallo and daughter Aviana in Studio City. The trio emerged from a toy store empty-handed, and it seems that the three are window shopping on a beautiful afternoon. Amy wore a casual outfit consisting of a baggy pair of boyfriend jeans, wedge boots, and a simple graphic tank under an oversized black cardigan. \n \nAKM-GSI January 24, 2015\nTo License These Photos, Please Contact :\nSteve Ginsburg\n(310) 505-8447\n(323) 423-9397\nsteve@akmgsi.com\nsales@akmgsi.com\nor\nMaria Buda\n(917) 242-1505\nmbuda@akmgsi.com\nginsburgspalyinc@gmail.com Amy Adams steps out in baggy jeans as she enjoys a lazy Saturday with daughter Aviana and her partner Darren Le Gallo Relaxing in time off * She's got curve appeal! Christina Milian shows off her toned legs in short shorts while on a rigorous hike Got her heart racing during a cardio session * GIRL ABOUT TOWN: Wheels come off Gemma Arterton's Dagenham production Adelphi set to close Made In Dagenham * AD157724218The-Revenant-201.jpg That's why you got a beard! Leonardo DiCaprio shows off rugged look in first glimpse of The Revenant The film hits theaters in January of 2016 * She's well RED! Noomi Rapace flashes kinky boots at Dior Homme show during Paris Fashion Week Understated with a flourish of excitement * alessandra ambrosio It's definitely working! Alessandra Ambrosio displays her heavenly figure in low-cut jumpsuit... after a gruelling cycling class Looked free flowing * SPOILER ALERT: Is the game finally up?Coronation Street's Gavin Rodwell gets a surprise visit from an ex who threatens to reveal his true identity * 24.JANUARY.2015 - PARIS - FRANCE\nKENDALL JENNER ARRIVES AT ROISSY AIRPORT IN PARIS. AFTERWARDS KENDALL ALONG WITH HER MOTHER KRIS JENNER ARRIVING AT GEORGE V HOTEL BEFORE LUNCHING TOGETHER AT L'AVENUE RESTAURANT.\n BYLINE MUST READ : ABACA/XPOSUREPHOTOS.COM\n*AVAILABLE FOR UK ONLY*\n***UK CLIENTS - PICTURES CONTAINING CHILDREN PLEASE PIXELATE FACE PRIOR TO PUBLICATION ***\n**UK CLIENTS MUST CALL PRIOR TO TV OR ONLINE USAGE PLEASE TELEPHONE 0208 344 2007** Haute stuff! Kendall Jenner touches down in Paris wearing oversized fedora as she prepares for Couture Fashion Week Fixture at fashion events * Grace Andrews TOWIE PREVIEW.jpg She hasn't got the hump! Grace Andrews is in high spirits as she steps out in stylish camel coat from debut clothing range Sported a warm smile * Man up! Sharon Osbourne goes for the androgynous look as she enjoys a caffeine hit in Los Angeles She looked anything but ladylike in ensemble MORE DON'T MISS * PICTURE BYLINE --- Richards / optimusimages.co.uk\nPICTURES SHOW --- WAG Alex Gerrard seen in Liverpool today sheltering under her fur coat during a heavy downpour of rain. The model and mum of three will be looking forward to jetting off to L.A soon as her partner Liverpool F.C captain and club legend Stephen Gerrard has signed a lucrative deal with USA MLS team L.A Galaxy.\nDATE --- 24-01-2015\n****NOTICE, NO WEB OR TV USAGE WITHOUT PRIOR AGREEING A FEE****\n****Please Email - pictures@optimusimages.co.uk or visit - www.optimusimages.co.uk**** \n Not the hair! Alex Gerrard shields herself from the rain with faux fur coat as she sports grey top and distressed jeans to run errands in Liverpool * 'Growing up so fast!' Katie Holmes posts poignant Instagram snap of eight-year-old daughter Suri Cruise's hand on hers Will be nine soon * PARK CITY, UT - JANUARY 23: Model Amy Willerton attends Kari Feinstein's Style Lounge Presented By Aruba during 2015 Park City on January 23, 2015 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Lily Lawrence/Getty Images for Kari Feinstein) Turban up everywhere! Amy Willerton rocks a variety of chic hats as she parties up a storm at the Sundance Film Festival * PARK CITY, UT - JANUARY 23: Actress Brittany Snow attends the Lipton Sparkling Ice Tea Party hosted by Brittany Snow at Sparkling Iced Tea Lounge on January 23, 2015 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images) Pitch Perfect! Brittany Snow cuts an elegant figure in chic black ensemble as she hosts Sundance event The 28-year-old actress cut an elegant figure * Picture Shows: Kim Falcone, Emma McVey, Mario Falcone January 23, 2015 Reality television star Mario Falcone is seen out and about with his girlfriend Emma McVey and mother Kim Valcone in Essex, England. The trio left fellow 'The Only Way Is Essex' alumni Charlie Sims' business, 'Charlie's Deli' with Mario happily tweeting pictures of both his lunch and coffee. Exclusive All Rounder WORLDWIDE RIGHTS Pictures by : FameFlynet UK 2015 Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049 Email : info@fameflynet.uk.com TOWIE hunk Mario Falcone holds hands with his model girlfriend Emma McVey as they step out for a leisurely lunch date Welcome part of family * A perfect 10! Gymnast sex scene in The Bronze steals the show at Sundance Film Festival opening night Black comedy about a washed-up Olympian * Mandatory Credit: Photo by Startraks Photo/REX (4376380a) Ruth Wilson 'Night of Constellations' play opening night, New York, America - 13 Jan 2015 'Why have I always got to do the orgasm face?' Ruth Wilson says it's 'unnecessary and unfair' that actresses must be the most sexual on screen * Picture Shows: Laura Dern January 23, 2015\n \n Actress Laura Dern chats on her cell phone while out and about in Brentwood, California. Laura has been busy as of late promoting her film 'Wild,' which co-stars Reese Witherspoon. \n \n Non Exclusive\n UK RIGHTS ONLY \n \n Pictures by : FameFlynet UK © 2015\n Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049\n Email : info@fameflynet.uk.com Fancy seeing you here! Naomi Watts bumps into Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern before taking a spin on her bike The blonde beauties turned heads * Now that's a face for radio! Graham Norton looks exhausted as he steps out in central London to present his BBC breakfast show * Make-up free Reese Witherspoon shows off her fit figure in yoga tights as she grabs a coffee on the go Looks ready for the Oscars red carpet! * ©2015 RAMEY PHOTO 310-828-3445\nEXCLUSIVE\nCHRIS MARTIN touches down at LAX in Los Angeles from Germany.\n012315\nPRB12 Chris Martin makes a cool arrival into Los Angeles as he wears sunglasses at night and a leather jacket The 37-year-old seemed to be in good spirits * AD157665054Picture-Shows-La.jpg Putting in the leg work! Lana Del Rey shows off her lean pins in a thigh split dress as she steps out in LA White printed dress nearly slit to the hip * Picture Shows: Danielle Lloyd January 19, 2015 Danielle Lloyd is spotted wrapping up for the winter weather as she heads to the gym in Birmingham, UK. The former WAG, who sported a fur vest and beanie in addition to neon sneakers, is one of several celebrities set to try out their performance art skills on ITV's brand new show 'Get Your Act Together'. Exclusive All Round WORLDWIDE RIGHTS Pictures by : FameFlynet UK 2015 Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049 Email : info@fameflynet.uk.com Make-up free Danielle Lloyd dons a huge bobble hat and faux fur gilet as she hits her local gym for workout Still looking glam on mundane trip * Kym Marsh went for Dinner at Rosso Restaurant in Manchester city centre on Saturday night before joining her son David at The Milton Club for a late drink...... 17.1.15. 'She's shocked someone called the police': Kym Marsh reported for 'noise and nuisance' by neighbour because of daughter's karaoke party * Tall, Poldark and handsome... it's the biggest treat for female viewers since Mr Darcy's wet shirt! Aidan Turner sports rippling torso in BBC drama * Racy in lace! Cheyenne Tozzi flaunts PLENTY of cleavage plus a very pert derrière as she poses in flattering black lace underwear for KISSKILL lingerie * A makeup free Penny Lancaster exits Thibiant Spa and tries to hide while picking up her car from the valet.\nFeaturing: Penny Lancaster\nWhere: Los Angeles, California, United States\nWhen: 24 Jan 2015\nCredit: WENN.com Make-up free Penny Lancaster dresses down in combat pants and floral blouse as she treats herself to a spa date * Supermodel, Cindy Crawford spotted with boots, blue jeans and a leather/fur vest. The legendary supermodel was seen at LAX making her way to a waiting limo. Pictured: Cindy Crawford Ref: SPL934618 240115 Picture by: Sharky / Splash News Splash News and Pictures Los Angeles: 310-821-2666 New York: 212-619-2666 London: 870-934-2666 photodesk@splashnews.com Supermodel style! Cindy Crawford looks effortlessly chic in leather gilet and boot-cut jeans as she arrives at LAX * Mandatory Credit: Photo by Paul Hampartsoumian/REX (4381352h) Mark Ronson and Nicole Scherzinger Mark Ronson 'Uptown Funk' album launch party, London, Britain - 23 Jan 2015 Nice to see you! Nicole Scherzinger rocks a chic leather top as she embraces Mark Ronson at his album launch party Happy to see each other * Picture Shows: James Argent, Arg January 23, 2015\n \n 'The Only Way Is Essex' star James 'Arg' Argent arrives back in the UK after a family trip to Las Vegas, Nevada.\n \n The reality star arrived back in London with his dad who accompanied him on the trip, the destination a surprise to some following Arg's time in rehab in November to address his partying ways.\n \n Exclusive All Rounder\n WORLDWIDE RIGHTS\n Pictures by : FameFlynet UK © 2015\n Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049\n Email : info@fameflynet.uk.com Made it back okay this time! James Argent looks refreshed as he returns to the UK after father-son bonding trip to Las Vegas Went missing last year * So much fun shooting on the #ParkCity slopes with @AlecBaldwin & @hilariabaldwin for @extratv! See you on the snow! Pregnant Hilaria Baldwin hits the slopes in Utah as she wears matching ski gear with doting husband Alec The two seemed to be in good spirits * AD157671946UK-CLIENTS-MUST-.jpg Pregnant Ashlee Simpson hides her baby bump in a baggy sweater as she makes a grocery run with husband Evan Ross * Katie. 'Dane Bowers was the love of my life': CBB's Katie Price says she was 'obsessed' with ex and talks about attempted overdose 'First time heart broke' * NEW YORK NY - JANUARY 23: Behati Prinsloo seen in Soho on January 23, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Josiah Kamau/BuzzFoto via Getty Images) Make-up free Behati Prinsloo ditches the glamour as she sports unkempt locks and a shabby coat during shopping trip in NYC * Editorial Use Only Mandatory Credit: Photo by REX (4378148aj) Cami Li 'Celebrity Big Brother' TV show, Elstree Studios, Hertfordshire, Britain - 17 Jan 2015 'She became jealous of another girl and things got out of hand': CBB's Cami Li 'was arrested after assaulting ex-boyfriend' Not one to back down * Alicia Douvall is the second celebrity to be voted from the Big Brother House in shock public vote eviction Bye bye, cosmetic surgery addict * Taking fashion tips from Del Boy? David Beckham wears chunky gold bracelets with a suave suit to car event in China The peckham look * Emily Scott.jpg - must link to Photography by Fabrizio Lipari www.fabriziolipari.com From Playboy bunny to bush babe! Shane Warne's buxom ex-girlfriend Emily Scott is covered only by ivy leaves as she poses completely nude * KITZBUEHEL, AUSTRIA - JANUARY 23: Ellie Goulding attends the Audi Night 2015 on January 23, 2015 in Kitzbuehel, Austria. (Photo by Dominik Bindl/Getty Images) Glamorous in green! Ellie Goulding covers up her chic black dress with khaki military style coat at car event She recently put on a provocative display * Michelle Rodriguez PREVIEW.jpg Make-up free Michelle Rodriguez works laid-back style in white leather jacket and light grey scarf as she jets into Paris * 'Just rocking the battered housewife look': It-girl Lady Victoria Hervey sparks outrage after comparing bruise sustained during reality show to injuries of abuse victims * MILAN, ITALY - JANUARY 18: Pixie Geldof attends the Prada show during the Milan Menswear Fashion Week Fall Winter 2015/2016 on January 18, 2015 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images) 'Let's do this!': Pixie Geldof follows in musician father Bob's footsteps as she signs a record and publishing deal * Model Bar Refaeli is seen during a photo shoot in Marbella, 23 January 2015. 24 January 2015. Please byline: G Tres/Vantagenews.co.uk Bar Refaeli covers up her svelte frame in a camouflage green jacket and skinny jeans as she continues fashion shoot in Marbella * Can you hear me now? Keanu Reeves chats on his cell phone as he speeds through LAX en route to the Sundance Film Festival Promoting Knock Knock * Massive congratulations to our dear friends @soniakruger and Craig McPherson on the birth of their daughter (and my future daughter-in-law) Maggie. We cannot wait to meet her! #love #family #babiesallround #maggie 'She was worth the wait!' First look at Sonia Kruger and Craig McPherson's baby Maggie ... as new mum jokes she was named after The Simpsons * Melanie Griffith, 57, flashes her cleavage and thigh gap as she hits the gym in low-cut vest top and skin-tight workout leggings Gym again * Love is in the air! Ansel Elgort and girlfriend Violetta Komyshan share a passionate embrace after arriving at JFK Back together * 'It's a compulsion': Katie Price breaks down in Celebrity Big Brother over fears of Kieran Hayler's 'adrenaline addiction' with sex Worried about fidelity * Life's a drag! Mickey Rourke skips the fitness routine as he steals a smoke while wearing a cowboy hat and boots He's a man known for his unique sense of style * NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 15: NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 15;Singer Mel B and Stephen Belafonte are seen walking in Soho on January 15, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images) Mel B DENIES reports she was 'held hostage at home'... and says husband Stephen Belafonte has NOT been contacted by police over claims * NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 23: Actress Liv Tyler is seen walking in Soho on January 23, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images) Like mother, like son! Pregnant Liv Tyler and Milo sport matching winter coats on freezing stroll Actress, 37, and son, 10, kept warm * Jennifer Garner arrives at LAX in Los Angeles, CA.\n\nPictured: Jennifer Garner \nRef: SPL934341 230115 \nPicture by: Splash News\n\nSplash News and Pictures\nLos Angeles: 310-821-2666\nNew York: 212-619-2666\nLondon: 870-934-2666\nphotodesk@splashnews.com\n Jennifer Garner dresses down as she gets her caffeine fix after arriving home in Los Angeles More than happy to use her real name. * Oscar-winning actress Dianne Wiest is forced to leave NYC apartment after not finding enough work to pay rent The 65-year-old says it's hard to find work * Kendall Jenner wore a long coat and a fedora, with ripped pale jeans, for her flight from LA to Paris, on Friday, January 23, 2015 X17online.com Kendall Jenner covers up in oversized hat and trench coat as she jets out of LAX for Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week Burgeoning career * AD15767696023.JANUARY.jpg He's pumped! Arnold Schwarzenegger, 67, shows off his massive guns in a tight T-shirt as he grabs lunch in Beverly Hills Barely fit in T-shirt * Naomi Campbell cuts a stylish figure in black and white printed dress while promoting new role on the hit show Empire Youthful looks * Getting the band back together! Lorde spends quality time with boyfriend James Lowe and parents after a quick stint in Hollywood Back home * The world through Karl Lagerfeld's eyes: Pharrell Williams gives nod to Chanel pal with weird shades and 'inspirational' jacket * Marcia Cross, 52, sports incredible youthful glow as she steps out completely makeup-free in skin-tight leggings and grey hoodie * Sandra Sully Puff.jpg 'I will never be the same': As Sandra Sully marks 25 years at the news desk the popular TV star reflects on how kidnap attempt in 1997 changed her forever * She's got curls to go with the curves! Iggy Azalea shows off hairstyle flexibility as she flaunts voluminous wavy blonde locks * NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 23: Actress Sarah Jessica Parker attends "It's Only A Play" Broadway Re-Opening Night at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on January 23, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images) Golden girl! Sarah Jessica Parker shimmers in a beautiful lace dress at husband Matthew Broderick's Broadway play * 131747, Fergie and Josh Duhamel seen out with son Axl in LA. Los Angeles, California - Friday January 23, 2015. GERMANY, AUSTRIA, AND SWITZERLAND OUT Photograph: © Kai, PacificCoastNews. Los Angeles Office: +1 310.822.0419 sales@pacificcoastnews.com FEE MUST BE AGREED PRIOR TO USAGE The apple of his eye! Doting dad Josh Duhamel cuddles son Axl on family outing with Fergie It was family time for Josh later on Friday * Hat's better! Britney Spears recovers from her bad hair day with a stylish fedora as she steps out in Malibu Bad hair day on Friday * Taylor-Swift.jpg Girls just want to have fun! Taylor Swift and the Haim sisters strike a pose in their bikinis on a tropical getaway to Hawaii A very sexy entourage * Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber make the most of some winter sun as they enjoy LA ahead of SAG Awards They're regularly seen bundled up * Jenny McCarthy.jpg Stressful day at work? Jenny McCarthy puffs on cigarette as she leaves studio... but enjoys visit from husband Donnie Wahlberg Nicotine fix * Lady Gaga covers up her body with feather wrap... hours after leaving very little to the imagination in sheer dress No so see-through * Ashley Greene exits her gym with a visible bruise on her left arm.\nFeaturing: Ashley Greene\nWhere: Los Angeles, California, United States\nWhen: 24 Jan 2015\nCredit: WENN.com 'I want a woman's body that is extremely fit!' Ashley Greene takes her own advice and hits the gym Clearly giving the workout her all * TAMWORTH, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 24: Kasey Chambers poses with her sons Arlo Nicholson and Talon Hopper after winning two Golden Guitar awards for 'Single of The Year' and 'Album of the Year' during the 43rd Country Music Awards of Australia on January 24, 2015 in Tamworth, Australia. (Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images) 'My spunky dates!': Queen of Country Music Kasey Chambers beams with pride as she walks the red carpet with lookalike sons Snagged two awards * Photo Must Be Credited ©Alpha Press 077033 16/01/2015\nKelly Brook at the NBCUniversal 2015 Winter TCA Tour Day 2, Langham Huntington Hotel, Pasadena, California 'I am too judgmental': 'Single' Kelly Brook confesses she knows NOTHING about relationships as she discusses love life Better luck in her 20s * LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 21: Ruth Langsford (L) and Eamonn Holmes attend the National Television Awards at 02 Arena on January 21, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Getty Images) 'That woman has me run ragged': This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes brags about his active sex life with wife Ruth Langsford * Bethenny Frankel is seen coming out of the 'Today Show' in NYC.\n\nPictured: Bethenny Frankel\nRef: SPL934357 230115 \nPicture by: #JDH Imagez / Splash News\n\nSplash News and Pictures\nLos Angeles: 310-821-2666\nNew York: 212-619-2666\nLondon: 870-934-2666\nphotodesk@splashnews.com\n Bethenny Frankel bares her legs on chilly New York City outing in plaid pencil skirt and red pumps It was freezing in New York on Friday * EXCLUSIVE: *PREMIUM RATES APPLY* Justin Bieber cozies up to "good friend" Hailey Baldwin in his swimming pool. Bieber and Hailey looked close as they swam for about an hour and played with a soccer ball at his Beverly Hills home, where he has also recently been seen with Kendall Jenner. Bieber was seen giving Hailey a back rub as they relaxed in the cool water of his infinity pool. He has insisted: "I'm super single and this is my good friend, you would know otherwise." Pictured: Justin Bieber, Hailey Baldwin Ref: SPL933232 220115 EXCLUSIVE Picture by: Sharpshooter Images / Splash Splash News and Pictures Los Angeles: 310-821-2666 New York: 212-619-2666 London: 870-934-2666 photodesk@splashnews.com Justin Bieber soaks up the sun in his pool with bikini-clad Hailey Baldwin... as the singer 'denies that he's dating model OR their mutual friend Kendall Jenner' * What cold snap? TOWIE's Jess Wright defies the weather in wrap-around leather skirt and cleavage-enhancing top Single and set to mingle * Selena Gomez shares photo Selena Gomez seen 'kissing and hugging' rumoured boyfriend Zedd during dinner date in Atlanta Allegedly spotted getting comfortable at Benihana * Picture Shows: Cheryl Fernandez-Versini January 23, 2015 ** MOL Agreed Fee 1K ** ** 500 Min Paper Fee ** Is She Pregnant? Is Cheryl showing the early signs of a baby bump? 'X Factor' judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini is spotted leaving The Princes Trust in Newcastle, UK. After Cheryl tweeted about 'big news' many speculated the singer was going to make a pregnancy announcement, however Cheryl went on to say promote 'Chery's Trust'. The trust looks to enhance the support available to young people and improve the outlook for people in the North East of England. Cheryl has joined forces with youth charity The Prince's Trust to help fund a new state-of-the-art centre in the heart of Newcastle, which will support disadvantaged young people in the North East. Cheryl has committed to raise 2million to help The Prince's Trust get the centre up and running. ** MOL Agreed Fee 1K ** ** 500 Min Paper Fee ** Exclusive WORLDWIDE RIGHTS Pictures by : PICTURE EXCLUSIVE Cheryl Fernandez-Versini steps out for the first time after fans speculate over pregnancy After NTA no-show * Putting on a racy display! Ellie Goulding shows off her ample assets as she strips down to her bra in a series of sexy selfies Plus a furry hat * BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 09: Actor Brad Pitt arrives at the 15th Annual AFI Awards at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills on January 9, 2015 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic) 'You ripped off my song!' Desperate Housewives composer sues Hans Zimmer and Brad Pitt's production company over 12 Years A Slave score * AD157663748Gabi Grecko .jpg Fifty Shades Of Gabi! Grecko flaunts cleavage in revealing leather getup before going fresh faced to show off natural good looks Confusing followers * Sheer ambition! Lady Gaga throws fur coat off her shoulders to reveal ample chest in see-through blue dress while in chilly NYC Very revealing * **EXCLUSIVE IMAGES** TOWIES FERNE MCCANN AND BOYFRIEND CHARLIE SIMS SEEN OUT IN ESSESX-FRIDAY 23RD JANUARY 2015 - RA-PIX.CO.UK - 07793221861 - CONTACT RALPH PETTS -\\nRALPH@RA-PIX.CO.UK TOWIEs Ferne McCann steps out in brown leather dungarees as she goes phone shopping with boyfriend Charlie Sims * Usher and fiancée Grace Miguel enjoy a romantic stroll in NYC as they are seen together for first time since engagement Quietly became engaged * Westwood, CA - Hilary Duff carries a tired little Luca to do some shopping at Westside Pavilion in Westwood. Luca most likely fell asleep on the car ride over and his mother carried him up the escalators to the mall as he slept in her arms.\nAKM-GSI January 23, 2015 \nTo License These Photos, Please Contact :\nSteve Ginsburg\n(310) 505-8447\n(323) 423-9397\nsteve@akmgsi.com\nsales@akmgsi.com\nor\nMaria Buda\n(917) 242-1505\nmbuda@akmgsi.com\nginsburgspalyinc@gmail.com Tuckered out! Hilary Duff's son Luca cannot even keep his eyes open after a big day of shopping and playing in the park * EXCLUSIVE ALL ROUND Talk is Katie Price could be next to be booted out CBB for talking about her intimate details about Alex and Leandro. Alex Reid and fianc Nikki Manashe take the time to start to arrange their upcoming wedding and arrange for a horse drawn carriage to transport them .They are seen checking out the 100year old carriage then checking out the horses to pull it with. Alex has obviously got to like horses after being with Katie and her love of horses . BYLINE : ISOIMAGES must be used Alex Reid puts public digs from ex-wife Katie Price to one side... as he plans wedding to fiancée Nikki Manashe Been dating for 18 months * Today's headlines * Most Read * Shocking moment female socialist activist is gunned down by police during demonstrations on fourth... * James Bulger killer Jon Venables is signed up to onling dating website contacting single women who do not... * Drug mule granny 'weeks away from Bali firing squad' after being asked to sign document that formally... * Jamie Oliver’s restaurant in Turkey files for bankruptcy just fourteen months after opening in Istanbul * Calpol can be dangerous - so why make it taste like strawberry sweets? Doctors urge manufacturers to make... * I beat ebola with high-tech drugs and Irn Bru! Scottish NHS makes full recovery in hospital after... * I turned in the rock star child rapist. So why was I put on trial? Ex-lover of depraved Lostprophets star... * UKIP MEP defects to the Tories: Shock as former business spokesman says party is 'pointless' and 'racist'...... * This party? It is now just a vanity project for Farage the dictator: AMJAD BASHIR on why he has defected... * A team of archaeologists and anthropologists take notes after starting the excavation work after identifying three unrecorded and unidentified graves in the chapel¿s crypt of the closed order Convent of the Barefoot Trinitarians in Madrid's historic Barrio de las Letras, or Literary Quarter, Spain, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015. Experts searching for the remains of Miguel de Cervantes hope they may be entering the final phase of their nine-month quest to solve the mystery of where the great Spanish writer was laid to rest. The 'Don Quixote' author was buried in 1616 at the Convent but the exact whereabouts of his grave in the tiny convent chapel are unknown. The bones found will be exhumed and analyze, after that, the experts will try to identify the bones using DNA profiling. (AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza) Experts examine bones in Spain's quest to find last resting place of Don Quixote author Miguel de Cervantes * RSPCA set to close TV's Animal Hospital as donations dry up: Clinic made famous by Rolf Harris to shut after... * Life on Mars? New NASA photo shows workman fixing space Rover on the Red Planet, conspiracy theorists claim * Fears for riot gun PC who killed Mark Duggan as secret file on shooting that sparked London riots is 'lost... * Cliff 'leak' cop let off with a slap on the wrist: Officer given 'management advice' after posting... * 'He turned around and he said "Do you have any idea what it's like to know you have to kill?": Los Angeles... * 'I wish I'd killed more': American Sniper Chris Kyle said his only regret was that US lives were lost... * 'Losing my leg? That was easier to cope with than my divorce from Paul': Heather Mills on marriage and... * Euro crisis looms as Greek Left lead poll: Fears victory for anti-austerity party could trigger panic - and... * .. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Richard Young /REX (3580867p).. Lorraine Candy.. Elle Style Awards, London, Britain - 18 Feb 2014.. .. 62p-an-hour T-shirt critics ‘hate women’: Bizarre claim of editor behind backfiring fashion stunt (and don’t... * Mrs Google's DNA test for her unborn girl: Wife of internet tycoon has daughter tested for risk of cancer,... * Disabled man, 40, with the mental age of seven is barred from his regular visits to Legoland over child... * I'm coming out as gay, says married Army general to hit back at the bigots threatening my career: He is a... * Are you calling me a liar, Mr Miliband? You know I heard you say 'economy will fall off a cliff' fumes... * Ed Miliband's masterstroke to beat the floods? Let's call in a fleet of oil lorries to 'vacuum up' water * Anger has hearing aids are rationed by the NHS: Hard of hearing patients given only one device to be worn on... * Police tell drivers to set home address on satnavs to local police station as car thieves have been using... * Cameron slams 'murderous barbarity' of ISIS after Japanese hostage 'beheading' as he faces fresh... * As Prince Charles and David Cameron lead tributes to Saudi king... Oxford historian MARK ALMOND says UK... * Thirteen former SAS soldiers face trial over 'shoot-to-kill' deaths of IRA suspects in a series of covert... * Imam at mosque where Lee Rigby's killers worshipped sues the BBC for calling him an 'extremist who... * Kurdish fighters fly 250ft 'flag of victory' on hill over Kobane as ISIS supply route is finally cut after... * composite.jpg Japanese Prime Minister says there is a 'high' chance ISIS video claiming hostage has been beheaded is... * Inquiry into historic sex abuse has 'wasted' £25,000 on controversial eight-strong panel that Theresa May is... * Children's brain doctor who was high on date-rape drug and cocaine while on call for vulnerable young... * You've got mail: Queen hires assistant to help deal with soaring demands for her 100th bithday telegrams * Royal police bodyguard sues the Met over claims he is being forced to work too many hours * Two cute! Adorable twin babies crack up laughing at each other after discovering the game of peekaboo * Teenager hacked to death with a machete outside a pub was trying to protect group of girls, family say * Putin's torturers: In a hell-hole Russian jail, a top lawyer is frozen, chained to a radiator, then clubbed... * LIZ JONES: The best gift you can give your child? Some backbone * UK diplomats clash over British man on death row in Ethiopia: Officials' fury after Foreign Secretary claims... * For sale, Diana's last love nest... for £70m: Al Fayed's astonishing price tag for sumptuous St Tropez villa... * The Poundland sports kit: NELL MCANDREW asks, is the budget chain's exercise range REALLY fit for purpose? * Benedict Cumberbatch says Britain's black actors do better in Hollywood than here because 'it's an even... * PETER HITCHENS: OK, smoking is risky - but starting wars can seriously damage your health... * The love boat! Cruise ships become haven for sexual activity with 80% of passengers admitting to getting... * JAMES FORSYTH: He may be a TV chicken, but it is Dave's rivals who are in a flap * How to be a Wolf Hall know-it-all: Yes, you love it, but are you a bit lost? Where's Norfolk? Who's Suffolk?... * 'Chris Grayling is a s*** that needs to be flushed': Ex-Tory MP and leading barrister in astonishing attack... * Grayson Perry hat trick boosts his hearing: Artist wears a bonnet as a 'sort of ear trumpet' * MORE HEADLINES * Shocking moment female socialist activist is gunned down by police during demonstrations on fourth anniversary of Arab Spring that ousted Hosni Mubarak * The way things used to be: Incredible pictures of early 1950s London show forgotten world of smog, top hats and street urchins * Teenager hacked to death with a machete outside a pub was trying to protect group of girls, family say * How Japan is fighting back at Jihadi John with MEMES: Images of ISIS executioner cutting kebab meat and posing with a selfie stick go viral as nation shows it won't be silenced over new hostage threat * Adrian Chiles is SACKED by ITV with immediate effect halfway through his £1m contract and is replaced by BBC's Mark Pougatch * Pictured: Horrific injuries suffered by man mauled by three devil dogs who bit him more than 100 times and killed his springer spaniel * Disabled man, 40, with the mental age of seven is barred from his regular visits to Legoland over child protection fears * For sale, Diana's last love nest... for £70m: Al Fayed's astonishing price tag for sumptuous St Tropez villa where Dodi wooed Princess * Japanese Prime Minister says there is a 'high' chance ISIS video claiming hostage has been beheaded is genuine * As Hershey's launches a legal battle to drive Cadbury out of New York because sweets are 'too similar'... why American chocolate has always left a bitter taste for us Brits * Terror in the skies: The shocking moment a hot air balloon strikes power lines and bursts into flames, killing all 10 tourists and the pilot * What would YOU do? The moment shopkeeper claims he 'snatches gun out of robber's hand' - as he says he reacted like any 'normal' person * Now so alone, the socialite who wed a Sikh warrior: Just as cynics feared, they've split - but Jonathan Aitken's girl Alexandra clings on to her Indian dream * Blasphemy - death. Adultery - death. Theft - lose hand. Spying for the unbelievers -death. Terrorising people - exile: Islamic State publishes list of punishments * UKIP MEP defects to the Tories: Shock as former business spokesman says party is 'pointless' and 'racist'... as Farage's PR chief admits: 'We are a party for bigots' * Miracle of daily diet jab: £2 drug that helps you lose 19lbs could be available on NHS in months * Bed for the night without 'coffin' up a fortune? Six foot box appears in city centre as free place to sleep complete with solar panel to power radio, light and phone * 'My blood ran cold. I just couldn't face the idea of my little girl with a predator': Mother of 15-year-old who ran off to France with her paedophile teacher tells her shattering story * In swimsuit and false leg, a jaw-dropping photoshoot with star of TV show The Jump which begs the question... Where DO you put your ski pass, Heather? * 'I'm not a bad role model!' Labour MP's selfie-obsessed wife denies she sets a poor example... but admits she was called 'Trampy Karen' at school - as she posts ANOTHER picture online * Is Ched Evans feeling the pinch? Rapist footballer appears to let fiancee pay cab fare during London night out (as they show off iPhone covers with pictures of each other) * Cameron slams 'murderous barbarity' of ISIS after Japanese hostage 'beheading' as he faces fresh condemnation for paying respects to ruler who oversaw death by stoning for adultery and regular beheadings * He's the next Paul McCartney! Three-year-old boy performs pitch-perfect Beatles song with his guitar-playing dad (and robot helmet) * Pictured: The incredible moment that a smartly-dressed City worker takes on smash-and-grab jewellery shop raider brandishing a MACHETE * Julie Walters claims there IS a class divide in the arts with youngsters from privileged backgrounds now enjoying all the breaks * Nun complains of stomach pains... and GIVES BIRTH: Sister who had 'no idea' she was pregnant has a baby boy at hospital in Italy * 'Just rocking the battered housewife look': It-girl Lady Victoria Hervey sparks outrage after comparing bruise sustained during new reality TV show to injuries of domestic abuse victims * The ham made from meat soup to prawns with their eyes plucked out and kebabs with a glass full of grease: The unappetising truth about some of our favourite foods * Fancy a wee dram for Burns night? How to save money with supermarket own brand single malts which are the same as expensive brands but a fraction of the price * Drug mule granny 'weeks away from Bali firing squad' after being asked to sign document that formally confirms death sentence * Teacher sends father a stern note scolding him for his daughter's 'unhealthy' pack lunch of 'chocolate, marshmallows, a cracker and a pickle' - unfortunately for the school, dad's a doctor * I'm coming out as gay, says married Army general to hit back at the bigots threatening my career: He is a father, he's served in Iraq and Afghanistan - and now he will be most senior soldier to declare sexuality * The random twist of fate that burnt my family home to ashes: The darkest dread of every homeowner came true for novelist DAISY GOODWIN this week. Her story will chill your blood... * Fury over plans to use taxpayers' money to fund halal abattoir that refuses to stun its animals before killing them * Have the Tories scored ANOTHER poster own-goal? New election advert ridiculed for 'terrible photoshop'..and have they made Ed Miliband FATTER? * Selfridges goes unisex: Oxford Street department store to stock gender neutral fashion ranges for both men AND women * Muslim gang barred from gathering in large groups and burning flags after violent outbursts at rallies led by hate preacher Anjem Choudary * 28 people injured after motorway pile-up involving a coachload of theatre-going pensioners which also causes major tailbacks for 'miles' * How to be a Wolf Hall know-it-all: Yes, you love it, but are you a bit lost? Where's Norfolk? Who's Suffolk? Why's everyone called Thomas? Don't fret, here's a handy guide to all the history you need to know * British skier in his 30s dies after falling hundreds of metres to his death in the French Alps * Police hunt 12-year-old girl over theft of £3m diamond necklace from under the noses of staff at luxury Hong Kong jewellery store * Nurse who contracted Ebola while working in Sierra Leone discharged from hospital after making a complete recovery and says she is 'so happy to be alive' * Whole lotta grief (pt2): Robbie Williams fuels feud with Led Zep neighbour Jimmy Page with extra plans for huge basement with swimming pool at his £17.5m mansion * For sale, one careless owner, Mr Bean's McLaren (just £8m): Rowan Atkinson is selling his supercar after it cost almost £1m to repair when he smashed it into a tree * Late-night search party of friends using only the light from their mobile phones find tragic schoolgirl, 15, hanged * Ed Miliband's masterstroke to beat the floods? Let's call in a fleet of oil lorries to 'vacuum up' water * 'Chris Grayling is a s*** that needs to be flushed': Ex-Tory MP and leading barrister in astonishing attack on Justice Minister who he blasts as 'off his trolley' * First World War officer's time capsule containing perfectly preserved uniform, trench maps and newspapers found tucked away in storage at school history department * MOST READ IN DETAIL EDITOR'S SIX OF THE BEST * JAN MOIR: Four mothers who epitomise everything that's awful about Britain * EPHRAIM HARDCASTLE: The zipless dress once considered 'risque'... that has proved a hit thanks to the Duchess of Cambridge * DAILY MAIL COMMENT: Co-op, Labour and a betrayal of values * TOM UTLEY: At last, a genuine medical condition that explains why I never listen to a word my wife says * RICHARD LITTLEJOHN: Life's too short to measure a goldfish * Press the panic button... Lucifer's legged it: The Mail's theatre critic is directing his village's Easter play. So why has the Devil disappeared and did the Bible really feature green underpants MailOnline iPad app Next story Shocking moment female socialist activist is gunned down by police during demonstrations on fourth anniversary of Arab Spring that ousted Hosni Mubarak * 167 comments * 2 videos * SHARE PICTURE * * * * * ____________________ Copy link to paste in your message Find out more... Find out more... * Back to top * Home * News * U.S. * Sport * TV&Showbiz * Australia * Femail * Health * Science * Money * Video * Travel * Fashion Finder Sitemap Archive Video Archive Mobile Apps RSS Text-based site Reader Prints Our Papers Top of page Daily Mail Mail on Sunday This is Network Evening Standard This is Money Metro Jobsite Mail Travel Zoopla.co.uk Prime Location Published by Associated Newspapers Ltd Part of the Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday & Metro Media Group © Associated Newspapers Ltd Contact us Advertise with us Terms Privacy policy & cookies Cookie regulation logo ninemsn * News * Sports * Finance * Lifestyle * Entertainment * Video * Travel * More Sites * About us * Careers at ninemsn * Advertise with us * Contact us * Terms of use * Privacy © 1997-2014 ninemsn Pty Ltd - All rights reserved #TIME » First Couples Wed as Gay Marriage Becomes Legal in UK Comments Feed 4 Key Takeaways from New Census Data Ukrainian Opposition Leader Klitschko Drops Presidential Bid alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com Subscribe Sign In Sign Out Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos Person of the Year 2014 Top 10 Everything of 2014 Next Generation Leaders Above and Beyond Human Data Know Right Now The Nantucket Project New Energy Reality Retirement Redefined TIME 100 TIME Explains Top of the World Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Media Kit Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2015 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Egyptian Activist Shot and Killed During Peaceful Protest in Cairo Christie Seeks Common Ground With Iowa Conservatives Walker Shows His Dark-Horse Strategy in Iowa Northeast Storm Strengthens After Dumping Snow on Millions Winter Storm Is Turning the Northeast Into a Wonderland Here’s Why Carly Fiorina Thinks She Can Best Criticize Hillary Clinton See the Incredible Devastation of the Iconic Donetsk Airport “We’re the People”: John Ford’s The Grapes of Wrath at 75 Bizarre Creatures Found Living Under Half a Mile of Ice Cubans Appear More Relaxed in Smooth U.S. Talks SCROLL TO SEE MORE Loading TIME World United Kingdom First Couples Wed as Gay Marriage Becomes Legal in UK * Sam Frizell @Sam_Frizell March 29, 2014 SHARE First Same-Sex Marriages Take Place From Midnight Gay couple Peter McGraith and David Cabreza stand on the steps of Islington Town Hall after being married shortly after midnight in one of the UK's first same-sex weddings on March 29, 2014 in London. Rob Stothard—Getty Images Great Britain held its first same-sex marriages Saturday, and rainbow-colored flags were flown over government buildings. Prime Minister David Cameron called it a "historic day" in a congratulatory tweet The first same-sex marriages in Britain were held early Saturday morning after gay marriage became legal at midnight. The move to legalize same-sex marriage in England and Wales was lauded by politicians from both parties, the BBC reports. Rainbow-colored flags were flown over government buildings Saturday. “Congratulations to the gay couples who have already been married – and my best wishes to those about to be on this historic day,” United Kingdom Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted Saturday morning. Congratulations to the gay couples who have already been married – and my best wishes to those about to be on this historic day. — David Cameron (@David_Cameron) March 29, 2014 The Church of England will drop its opposition to same-sex marriage after years of opposition, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said on Friday night. Polls show about two-thirds of people in the country support gay unions, the Associated Press reports. Gay couples in England have been allowed to enter “civil partnerships,” conferring the same legal rights as marriage, since 2005. Britain banned schools and authorities from “promoting” homosexuality until 2003. Scotland passed a similar law in February that will allow same-sex marriages beginning in October. [BBC] 0 0 * HOME * U.S. * POLITICS * WORLD * BUSINESS * TECH * HEALTH * SCIENCE * ENTERTAINMENT * NEWSFEED * LIVING * IDEAS * PARENTS * SPORTS * HISTORY * THE TIME VAULT * MAGAZINE * NEWSLETTERS * Advertising * Media Kit * SITE MAP © 2015 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP Sign In Not a memeber? Sign Up Oops! We didn't recognize your email or password. Please try again. Existing Subscriber EMAIL ____________________ PASSWORD ____________________ SIGN IN [ ] Remember Me / Forgot Password? / Create Login Want the Full Story? SUBSCRIBE Your browser, Internet Explorer 8 or below, is out of date. It has known security flaws and may not display all features of this and other websites. Learn how to update your browser TAP (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] #PinkNews Miley Cyrus: ‘It is inspiring’ that the Disney Channel will introduce same-sex parents MEPs condemn attack on LGBT centre in Macedonia’s capital and cancellation of Pride event Enter your email address to receive our daily LGBT news roundup ____________________ (BUTTON) Sign up (BUTTON) No thanks You're free to unsubscribe at any time. PinkNews * Home * UK * US * World * Current Affairs * Entertainment * Opinion * Travel * Features * NOW Search ____________________ Get the latest LGBT headlines straight to your inbox with our free daily newsletter * About * Advertise * Contact * Feed Poll: UK support for equal marriage at 55% * * Tweet * * [pin_it_button.png] * * Email * 25^th June 2013, 2:04 PM * Scott Roberts, PinkNews * The 55% level of support in Britain was slightly above average The 55% level of support in Britain was slightly above average Get the latest LGBT headlines in your inbox with our free daily newsletter! ____________________ (BUTTON) Join 18 reader comments A new international poll by Ipsos puts support for equal marriage in the UK at 55%. The survey was conducted with a sample of 12,484 adults aged 18-64 in the following 16 countries: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Norway, Poland, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the United States. Six in ten (59%) of all respondents surveyed agree both that “same-sex couples should have the same rights to adopt children as heterosexual couples do”, and 64% believe “same-sex couples are just as likely as other parents to successfully raise children.” Support for equal marriage appears to be driven by demographic variables, knowing someone who is LGBT, religion, social media and cultural differences. Seven in ten (73%) of those in 16 countries support some form of legal recognition of same-sex couples – 52% support full marriage equality and 21% support some form of legal recognition but not marriage. Those surveyed with the most supporters for some sort of legal recognition are: Sweden (91%), Norway (90%), Spain (89%), Great Britain (82%) and France (80%). Countries with the smallest proportions of supporters are: Japan (51%), Hungary (51%), South Korea (57%), Poland (60%) and the United States (65%). Nine countries show outright majorities in support for full marriage equality: six where it is now legal (Sweden, Norway, Spain, Belgium, Canada, and France) and three where it is not yet legal (Germany, Great Britain, and Australia). In Argentina, where same-sex marriage is legal, supporters of full marriage equality are two-points shy of being a majority (48%). The 55% level of support in Britain was slightly above average. In France it was 51%. Simon Atkinson, of Ipsos MORI, said: “Same-sex marriage is more controversial in Westminster than it is among the public at large. What this poll shows is that David Cameron is in step, not just with the mood in Britain, but also with people in many countries around the world.” UK polls in the past year have shown support for equal marriage reaching as high as 71%. * 18 reader comments * Share on Facebook * Share on Twitter * Previous story Miley Cyrus tweeted her support for the fact that the Disney Channel announced that it will include same-sex parents in one of its programmes Miley Cyrus: 'It is inspiring' that the Disney Channel will introduce same-sex parents * Next story The flag of Macedonia MEPs condemn attack on LGBT centre in Macedonia's capital and cancellation of Pride event 3 More like this * Dr Sharon James: 'The majority of mainstream Christian people in this country do actually oppose gay marriage' (Photo: C4M, YouTube) Coalition for Marriage: ‘Quakers, Unitarians and Liberal Jews have unfairly dominated the equal marriage debate’ 61 * Christina Summers and MP Simon Kirby Brighton: Anti-equal marriage ex-Green councillor to debate issue with pro-gay Tory MP 30 * Lord Ashcroft is a Conservative peer Ashcroft poll: Only 15% would be less likely to vote for a party due to its support for equal marriage 12 * Ann Widdecombe: 'Marriage isn't about two people' Ann Widdecombe: I wouldn’t have enjoyed serving under David Cameron because of equal marriage 65 * Su Pollard: 'The condom message is simply not out there enough' Su Pollard: ‘Equal marriage can only be a good thing for sexual health’ 14 * The vote took place on Tuesday evening MPs pass same-sex marriage bill in final third reading 52 * Giles Goodall is a prospective Liberal Democrat candidate for the European Parliament Comment: LGBT rights in Europe: La vie en rose? 3 * David Cameron is strongly in favour of equal marriage Coalition for Marriage: David Cameron’s support for equal marriage explains the rise of UKIP 25 Recommended reading Topics * equal marriage * gay marriage * marriage equality * same sex marriage * gay wedding * Same-sex wedding * Gay rights * David Cameron * gay weddings * same sex weddings * France * civil unions * gay unions * Ipsos Trending right now * Howard Stern: Sam Smith is fat, ugly, and looks gay 15 * Archives reveal Churchill's Cabinet discussed gays 0 * Can you guess which Royal appeared in a gay magazine? 8 * Jeopardy! pokes fun at opponents of same-sex marriage 3 * Lawyer arrested after boyfriend dies of suspected drugs overdose — IFRAME: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/googlempu.html [14MLiDr] Latest stories * 8:00 PM Stonewall CEO Ruth Hunt has answered readers' questions Q&A: Stonewall CEO Ruth Hunt answers readers’ questions 16 * 7:02 PM UKIP has suspended MEP Amjad Bashir UKIP suspends MEP over ‘extremely serious’ financial allegations 7 * 6:09 PM The Scottish government snubbed the UK's tribute to the Saudi King Scotland didn’t fly flags at half mast for dead Saudi king 7 * 5:30 PM Snooki is now an ordained minister Snooki becomes ordained minister to perform same-sex wedding * 5:05 PM UKIP's health spokesperson disagrees with Nigel Farage UKIP Health spokesperson: People with HIV shouldn’t be banned from UK 4 * 4:39 PM Howard Stern launched an attack on Sam Smith Howard Stern: Sam Smith is fat, ugly, and looks gay 15 * 3:59 PM Jeopardy! pokes fun at opponents of same-sex marriage 3 * 3:30 PM Henry Hendron (right) has been arrested Lawyer arrested after boyfriend dies of suspected drugs overdose * 1:57 PM The King of Spain appeared on a Can you guess which Royal appeared in a gay magazine? 8 * 1:00 PM Andrea Williams claims schools 'indoctrinate' children into homosexuality Government apologises to anti-gay group over conference centre ban 26 See all IFRAME: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/stoliad4.html [INS: :INS] IFRAME: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/googleleader.html Also on PinkNews * Watch Man drowns out homophobic preacher in the best way * The NUT is looking for a new LGBT Senior Organiser Could you be the next LGBT Senior Organiser for the NUT? * Comment Everyone is Charlie Hebdo. Everyone is gay * ‘Thunderbirds are gay’? Fans mock ‘twinky’ stars of new remake * Stonewall CEO Ruth Hunt has answered readers' questions Q&A Stonewall CEO Ruth Hunt answers readers’ questions * Laci Green Watch This takedown of ‘gay cure’ therapy is flawless * The Kaleidoscope Trust works towards LGBT rights at home and abroad Have fun and support a good cause at the Kaleidoscope Trust Annual Gala Dinner * Al Murray will stand against Nigel Farage Al Murray to run for Parliament against Nigel Farage * Peter McGraith (L) and his husband David Cabreza (Photo: Andrea Baldo) Comment Beyond gay marriage – the next goal * Former Eton College student Jamie Jackson responds to author Piers Torday Comment Yes, there is homophobia at Eton * A character on Glee came out as transgender WATCH Glee character comes out as transgender * Protesters locked lips outside the cafe Photos ‘Kiss-in’ held outside Vienna café that banned kissing lesbians * The article fails to mention that many countries it recommends have harsh penalties for gay people Attitude suggests travel to Ebola free countries with gay death penalty IFRAME: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/mpuguardian.html PinkNews covers religion, politics, entertainment, finance, and community news for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community in the UK and worldwide. Founded to produce broadsheet quality journalism for the LGBT community, we cover politics to theology in an intelligent manner. * Experian Hitwise Top 10 Website Winner 2012 * Online Media Awards 2013 Finalist * © 2005 — 2015 PinkNews * All rights reserved * Web design by Felix Renicks sponsored [p?c1=2&c2=18667741&cv=2.0&cj=1] Quantcast Search Search this sit Search [facebook.jpg] [twitter.jpg] [rss.jpg] * Home + Log in/Create account * Introduction * Policies + Crime & Justice + Democracy + Economics + Education + Environment + Foreign Affairs + Health + Housing & Welfare + Immigration * BNPtv * Donate + Legacies * Membership + Join Online + Join Offline (Print Form) + Renew Online + Renew Offline (Print Form) + BNP Youth + Trafalgar Club * Publications + Freedom Newspaper + Constitution + Racism Cuts Both Ways + Activists Handbook (PDF) * Press Enquiries + National Press Releases * Info Pack * Contacts * Resources + Internal Forms + Payment Forms + Opposition + Government Forms + Handbooks + Teach Yourself Nationalism + Whitepapers * Leaflets * Links + BNPtv Videos + Alliance of European National Movements + BNP on Facebook + Twitter Same sex marriage ceremonies targeted by sham wedding crime Fri, 26/09/2014 - 05:00 Share this By Robert the Brucie Great Britain is suffering different methods of immigration abuse and one such method has been sham weddings, where the fake partner is paid to marry the person desiring British citizenship. Once married they part and the abuse is complete allowing the illegal immigrant to stay in Britain due to marrying a Brit of EU national in our country. Now it appears that illegal immigrants are using homosexual/lesbian marriage ceremonies as another method to gain a British passport. [bnp_gay_marriage_3_0.jpg] Same-sex marriages were made legal in March this year but within weeks of the legislation coming into effect, criminal gangs were touting sham gay weddings to those wanting to dodge immigration controls. An undercover reporter exposed the fraud and discovered one gang that organises sham gay marriages for £10,000. He posed as an illegal immigrant urgently seeking a sham marriage to stay in the UK, while another posed as an uncle. Peter and Ricardo, the gang's leaders, boasted to the undercover reporters they had "fixed" weddings "lots of times". They offered two potential fake Romanian brides to the reporter, both of whom explicitly stated they were not lesbians but were willing to pretend to be gay and marry anyone for cash. One of the girls, Alexandra, said she had organised six previous sham weddings and knew how to deceive immigration officers. She said: "We have to declare we live together… That's not gonna happen but that's what we have to declare." She said she could also arrange a "romantic" photo shoot of the undercover reporter and herself, designed to persuade the authorities that they were in a genuine relationship and said "we gonna like, hold hands, hold each other… we have to." The number of reported sham weddings has trebled in recent years, according to the Home Office. Mark Rimmer, head of Registration and Nationality Services at Brent Council, said: "Here in Brent, the Home Office stops marriages on a weekly basis. "In many boroughs in London the thought is that up to 20 to 30% of marriages are actually for the avoidance of immigration control." But these statistics only account for straight fake weddings. The authorities have yet to get to grips with sham gay weddings. Mr Rimmer said: "I think it is probably more difficult to spot the signs if you have a same sex couple whether they be male or female." The gang investigated claimed that breaking the law by fixing sham gay marriages was easy. Ricardo said he had never had any problems with the police or immigration officers. He said: "You say 'I am gay'. No more questions for you. Easy for gay." Minister for Immigration and Security, James Brokenshire, said what had been uncovered was disturbing and he had ordered his enforcement teams to launch an investigation into sham gay weddings as a result. He said: "Registrars will be given new powers later this year to better identify all fraudulent marriages." It seems that there is no end to the lengths that illegal immigrants will go to obtain the right to stay in our country. A country that has a massive housing shortage caused by millions of immigrants and a health service plus school system creaking at the seams under the weight of the population explosion. Simply, we believe that Britain must leave the EU to thus help secure our borders and drive out these Romanian criminals and organised gangs. Opening up free movement to the poorest in Eastern Europe is crippling Western European nations, with untold millions being paid out in welfare cheques, housing benefit and rising costs through usage of the health service and schools. It is clear that the sham marriage crime in Britain is big money and it will not reduce until we end our EU membership. If Mr Cameron is re-elected in May 2015, we must keep the pressure on him to hold that promised In or Out EU vote by the British people. We cannot allow him the same fob of which he and his party are doing now concerning promised further Scottish devolution powers which now looks like pie in the sky. Please read our posting guidelines before posting a comment. *IF YOU SEE A COMMENT THAT YOU THINK BREAKS THE GUIDELINES / RULES - PLEASE FLAG THE COMMENT* If you liked this news article, please donate online or by ringing 0844 8094581 to help with running costs and improvements of this website. If operators are busy, please try again. Having trouble posting your comment? Do you want help or have feedback about the usability of this website? If so, then please visit http://www.bnp.org.uk/feedback/website If you like what you read on this website, please join the British National Party, the party that will always put Britain First. Join online by clicking here today View the discussion thread. Join today from just £2.50 per month: ( ) OAP - £2.50 per month ( ) UNWAGED - £2.50 per month (*) STANDARD - £4.60 per month ( ) FAMILY - £5.58 per month ( ) GOLD - £8.75 per month ( ) OVERSEAS - £8.75 per month ( ) PLATINUM (GOLD + Newspaper)- £10.41 per month ( ) OVERSEAS GOLD - £10.41 per month ( ) OVERSEAS PLATINUM - £12.98 per month Salutation: [Mr.__] First Name: ____________________ Last Name: ____________________ Email: ____________________ Phone No: ____________________ [join_button.jpg]-Submit Get Active Membership Donate Sign up for news Your Email Address____ Sign Up Special features Hot cakes! Our new BNP recruitment leaflets are proving a huge hit with both BNP activists and the general public alike! Whose Streets? Our Streets! Fighting for freedom - resisting police oppression. © 2015 Heritage Content Management Limited, PO BOX 213, Wigton, CA7 7AL - Privacy Statement Google+ #next [logo.png] MENU Home About Us News Blog Resources Marriage Minutes Signatories Join Donate Don't play politics One man + one woman with marriage IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/Z7-YvabNC94?rel=0&autohide=1&showinfo=0 669,444 people signed the C4M national petition [icon-oneone.png] Marriage is Unique Throughout history and in virtually all human societies marriage has always been the union of a man and a woman. Marriage reflects the complementary natures of men and women. Although death and divorce may prevent it, the evidence shows that children do best with a married mother and a father. [icon-disagree.png] No Need For Redefinition Civil partnerships already provided all the legal benefits of marriage so there was no need to redefine marriage. It's not discriminatory to support traditional marriage. The politicians at Westminster had no democratic mandate to redefine marriage, since it was not included in their 2010 party manifestos. [icon-polygamy.png] Profound Consequences Those who believe in traditional marriage are being sidelined. People's careers are being harmed, couples seeking to adopt or foster are being excluded, and schools are expected to teach the new definition to children. And having been redefined once, what is to stop it being redefined again to allow polygamy? [icon-referendum.png] Speak Up People should not feel pressurised to go along with same-sex marriage just because of political correctness. They should be free to express their views. Government ministers have made clear that the belief that marriage should be between a man and a woman is undoubtedly worthy of respect in a democratic society. We must hold them to these assurances. Follow /// [fb.png] [twitter.png] [youtube.png] C4M, 8 Marshalsea Road, London SE1 1HL / Tel: 0207 403 7879 / Contact Us © 2013 - Coalition For Marriage #Law & Religion UK » Feed Law & Religion UK » Comments Feed Law & Religion UK » same-sex marriage Tag Feed Law & Religion UK Issues of law and religion in the United Kingdom – with occasional forays further afield Law & Religion UK Search ____________________ Search Main menu Skip to primary content Skip to secondary content * Recent posts * Recent comments * Archives * Subscribe Tag Archives: same-sex marriage Post navigation ← Older posts Religion and Law round-up – 18th January Posted on 18 January 2015 by Frank Cranmer Reply Reflections on a week in which the Lords debated assisted dying and chancel repairs, the C of E published a “programme for reform and renewal”, SCOTUS decided to hear argument on same-sex marriage – and a court took pity on a cleric faced with disqualification from driving… Reform and renewal in the C of E On 12 January, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York wrote to members of the Church of England’s General Synod proposing a “programme for reform and renewal” for the church, outlined in their statement “In Each Generation”: A programme for reform and renewal. This preceded the publication of a series of documents proposing reforms to be published on the Church’s website this week ahead of the meeting of the General Synod, 10 to 12 February. Due to the range and volume of material being issued in relation to the various Task Group reports, there was a daily release of key documents this week ahead of the general distribution of papers on Friday 16 January. These have included: Continue reading → Posted in assisted dying, Australia & New Zealand, chancel repairs, chattels, Church of England, discrimination, employment law, faculty jurisdiction, marriage, same-sex marriage, weekly roundup | Tagged assisted dying, Church of England, discrimination, employment, faculty Jurisdiction, marriage, same-sex marriage, Wales | Leave a reply Religion and Law round-up – 4th January Posted on 4 January 2015 by Frank Cranmer 2 So that’s the carols and mince pies over for another year, then. Back to work… … but not before tonight’s Epiphany Carol services, when some choirs will take the opportunity to dust off the Crotch – Lo, Star-Led Chiefs, Assyrian Odours Bring – a sort of Pirates of Penzance meets Messiah. For some, the Christmas season extends until Candlemas; but now that The Low Churchman’s Guide to the Solemn High Mass has ceased its regular postings we will no longer be reminded of the evils of “prolix ritual and ostentatious ceremonial”. Abortion, blasphemy and the Constitution of Ireland The common law offences of blasphemy and blasphemous libel were abolished in England and Wales by s 79 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008. In Ireland, however, Article 40.6.1°.i of the Constitution [Bunreacht na hÉireann] declares that “The publication or utterance of blasphemous, seditious, or indecent matter is an offence which shall be punishable in accordance with law”. In 1999 the common law offence of blasphemous libel was ruled to be incompatible with the Constitution’s guarantee of religious equality; but after a hiatus a new offence of “publication or utterance of blasphemous matter” was created by the Defamation Act 2009. The argument advanced by the Fianna Fáil Government was that it was necessary to have such an offence in order to fulfil the terms of Article 40.6.1°.i. To describe this as controversial would be a major understatement; and after the last general election, the incoming Fine Gael–Labour Coalition’s programme promised a Constitutional Convention to draft a range of reforms, including “Removing blasphemy from the Constitution”. Continue reading → Posted in abortion, Article 9 ECHR, assisted dying, blasphemy, civil partnership, CJEU, criminal law, ECHR, EU, faculty jurisdiction, Ireland, property, same-sex marriage, Scotland, weekly roundup | Tagged abortion, Article 9 ECHR, assisted dying, civil partnership, CJEU, criminal law, ECHR, faculty Jurisdiction, Ireland, property, same-sex marriage, Scotland | 2 Replies Law & Religion 2014 and 2015: retrospect and prospect – Part II Posted on 1 January 2015 by Frank Cranmer Reply To resume where we left off yesterday… Abortion and conscientious objection In December the Supreme Court ruled on Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board’s appeal against the judgment of the Inner House in Doogan & Anor v NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board [2013] ScotCS CSIH 36. The Inner House had overturned the decision of the Lord Ordinary [Lady Smith], who had refused the petition of Mary Doogan and Connie Wood, Greater Glasgow HB labour-ward coordinators at the Glasgow Southern General Hospital, for judicial review of the dismissal of their conscientious objection to supervising staff involved in abortions. In the Inner House, Lady Dorrian had justified a wide interpretation of the conscientious opt-out in section 4 of the Abortion Act 1967 because “it is recognised that the process of abortion is felt by many people to be morally repugnant … [I]t is a matter on which many people have strong moral and religious convictions, and the right of conscientious objection is given out of respect for those convictions and not for any other reason” [para 38]. The Supreme Court took precisely the opposite view. Continue reading → Posted in abortion, adoption, Article 9 ECHR, assisted dying, Church of England, civil partnership, employment law, Ireland, marriage, medicine & medical ethics, Northern Ireland, same-sex marriage | Tagged abortion, adoption, Article 9 ECHR, assisted dying, Church of England, civil partnership, conscientious objection, employment, Ireland, Northern Ireland, same-sex marriage | Leave a reply Religion and Law round-up – 21st December Posted on 21 December 2014 by Frank Cranmer Reply “Participating” in abortion, marking time on humanist weddings, first same-sex marriage under Scots law – and a hitch in EU accession to the ECHR.. Abortion and conscientious objection The big news of the week was that Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board won its appeal in the controversy over whether or not Mary Doogan and Connie Wood, labour ward coordinators at the Southern General Hospital and practising Roman Catholics, could claim conscientious objection under s 4 Abortion Act 1967 to having to supervise staff participating in abortions. Maria Strauss, an Associate at Farrer & Co, wrote a joint post on the case with Frank. Humanist weddings in England and Wales? The Sunday Times reported (£) that Number 10 was blocking proposals to provide for humanist marriages although the Lib Dems remained in favour. Understandably, the British Humanist Association was very disappointed indeed, not least because experience in Scotland (where celebrants are licensed rather than buildings) suggests that there is quite a strong demand for humanist wedding ceremonies. On Thursday the Government published its response to the consultation: Marriages by non-religious belief organisations. In short, though ministers don’t seem to be against humanist marriages in principle, they reckon that the law in England and Wales on licensing buildings for the solemnisation of marriages is so complex that “it is necessary to carefully consider the legal and technical requirements concerning marriage ceremonies and registration and the range of relevant equality issues”. So they have asked the Law Commission to conduct “a broader review of the law concerning marriage ceremonies”. In short: nothing this side of the General Election. Continue reading → Posted in abortion, animal welfare, assisted dying, conscientious objection, ECHR, ECtHR, EU, EU Treaty of Fundamental Rights, marriage, medicine & medical ethics, same-sex marriage, Scotland, weekly roundup | Tagged abortion, assisted dying, Church of England, CJEU, ECHR, ECtHR, EU, EU Treaty of Fundamental Rights, Islam, Judaism, marriage, Roman Catholic Church, same-sex marriage, Scotland | Leave a reply Scottish Bishops on Marriage and Civil Partnership Posted on 15 December 2014 by David Pocklington 5 Few outwith Scotland have commented on the guidance issued by the College of Bishops of the Scottish Episcopal Church in relation to the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014: the provisions that come into force 16 December 2014 will permit same-sex marriage ceremonies to take place after 31 December 2014, i.e. after the current 14-day period of notice[1]. The Act also allows for the possibility of civil partnerships being registered in the context of a religious ceremony. There has been strong condemnation in some quarters of approach taken by the Bishops’ document and Continue reading → Posted in marriage, same-sex marriage, Scotland | Tagged marriage, same-sex marriage, Scotland | 5 Replies Religion and Law round-up – 14th December Posted on 10 December 2014 by Frank Cranmer 1 Advent 3, and only 11 shopping days until Christmas (and 47 working days until the Church Roof Fund deadline) The Law Society’s sharia practice note We have commented previously on the Law Society’s ill-fated practice note on drafting a sharia-compliant will, withdrawn with apologies in November. However, Legal Futures now reports that it has become apparent, as the result of an adjudication by the Society’s freedom of information adjudicator, that the note was drawn up without any input from experts in sharia. The relevant part of the adjudication reads as follows: “On 9 September the applicant wrote to The Law Society with questions concerning the recently published Sharia Succession Rules Practice Note (‘the Note’). He asked who the individual author(s) had been [and] whether any religious organisations or lobbyists had been consulted before the decision to publish the Note … The Society said that no ‘Sharia Law experts’ had been consulted and that no external individuals or organisations had lobbied the Society or been involved in drafting the Note” [our emphasis]. Continue reading → Posted in abortion, animal welfare, Article 9 ECHR, Church of England, constitution, Islam, Northern Ireland, same-sex marriage, sharia, weekly roundup | Tagged abortion, animal welfare, Article 9 ECHR, constitution, Islam, Northern Ireland, same-sex marriage, sharia | 1 Reply “Conversion Wednesday” – one week to go Posted on 3 December 2014 by David Pocklington Reply In contrast to the “Quiet Wednesday . . . antidote to Black Friday and Cyber Monday” planned for 10 December at St Mary’s Cathedral, Glasgow, register offices in England and Wales will be expecting a “Busy Wednesday” as couples in a civil partnership take this first opportunity for its conversion to a marriage. The secondary legislation necessary for this part of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 to come into force received parliamentary approval on 10 November, when the Minister for Skills and Equalities (Nick Boles) outlined the implications of these measures to the First Delegated Legislation Committee. Continue reading → Posted in Church of England, civil partnership, England & Wales, same-sex marriage, Scotland | Tagged Church of England, civil partnership, England & Wales, marriage, same-sex marriage, Scotland | Leave a reply Post navigation ← Older posts CAPTION: January 2015 S M T W T F S « Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Search ____________________ Search Recent Posts * Religion and Law round-up – 25th January * Manorial rights: Justice Committee report * Religious discrimination and the Ministry of Justice: a quick look at religious dress and discrimination * Lords Spiritual (Women) Bill completes Commons stages * Local Government (Religious etc. Observances) Bill * House of Lords debates chancel repair liability * Religion and Law round-up – 18th January * Blogging, campaigning and the General Election * Calling the banns in Scotland? – on reflection, maybe not * CofE Simplification Report – Key Recommendations * Wi-Fi in churches – evidence, system security and commercial considerations * Archbishops propose programme of reform and renewal * Religion and Law round-up – 11th January * Sham marriage/civil partnership and the law: update * Wi-Fi in churches – health effects, courts’ jurisdiction and locus standi * Channel Islands episcopal oversight * CofE services after suicide * How relevant to the UK is US case-law on religion? * Religion and Law round-up – 4th January * End of Year Quiz – 2014: the Answers Recent Comments * Religion and Law round-up – 25th January | Law & Religion UK on Religion and law round up – 16th November * Religion and Law round-up – 25th January | Law & Religion UK on Religious discrimination and the Ministry of Justice: a quick look at religious dress and discrimination * Religion and Law round-up – 25th January | Law & Religion UK on Manorial rights: Justice Committee report * Asociación para la Defensa de la Libertad Religiosa » Titulares Internacionales de Libertad Religiosa del 15 enero 2015 on CofE Simplification Report – Key Recommendations * BBC Panorama: Secrets of Britain’s Sharia Councils | Multiculturalismo y pluralismo jurídico on Sharia and the English legal system: the Government’s view Archives [Select Month________] Top Posts & Pages * Manorial rights: Justice Committee report * “Religious” content of civil marriage ceremonies * Recent posts * Religion and Law round-up – 18th January * House of Lords debates chancel repair liability Blogroll * British Religion in Numbers * Center for Law and Religion, St. John’s U School of Law * Current Awareness from the Inner Temple Library * Ecclesiastical Law (Philip Jones) * ECHR Blog * Erasmus * European Courts * Human Rights in Ireland * In the Light of the Law * LARSN Case Database * Law and Religion Australia * Multiculturalismo y pluralismo jurídico * ObiterJ * PluRel – a blog about religion and society * Religion Clause * Religion Law Blog (Neil Addison) * Religion – Weltanschauung – Recht [Religion – Belief – Law] * Strasbourg Consortium * The Digital Nun * Thinking Anglicans * ThinkRights * UK Human Rights Blog * UK Supreme Court Blog * [Roman Catholic] Canon Law Made Easy * [the other] Cranmer blog Search ____________________ Search Subscribe to Blog via Email Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Join 193 other subscribers Email Address Email Address_______ Subscribe Subscribe to blog via RSS * RSS - Posts * RSS - Comments 654 feed subscribers Follow us on Twitter My Tweets Proudly powered by WordPress Law & Religion UK Proudly powered by WordPress Theme: Twenty Eleven. #publisher * sunday_express_logo 2° ____________________ (BUTTON) SECTIONS * * * * HOME * NEWS + UK + WORLD + SHOWBIZ + ROYAL + NATURE + POLITICS + HISTORY + WEIRD + WWI + OBITUARIES + SCOTLAND + SUNDAY * SPORT + FOOTBALL + TRANSFER NEWS + CRICKET + TENNIS + GOLF + F1 + RUGBY UNION + HORSE RACING + BOXING + OTHER SPORT * COMMENT + COLUMNISTS + EXPRESS COMMENT + BEACHCOMBER + CARTOON * FINANCE + CITY & BUSINESS + PERSONAL FINANCE + THE CRUSADER * TRAVEL + ACTIVITY + BEACH + CRUISE + SHORT BREAKS + TRAVEL NEWS * ENTERTAINMENT + FILMS + TV & RADIO + BOOKS + THEATRE + MUSIC + TV LISTINGS * LIFE & STYLE + HEALTH + DIETS + LIFE + GARDEN + FOOD + STYLE + PROPERTY + TECH + CARS + SATURDAY + S MAG + WIN + RETIREMENT + TOP 10 FACTS * PUZZLES + HOROSCOPE + OFFERS + PUZZLES + COMPETITIONS + BINGO * PICS * VIDS * UK First same-sex marriages take place in Britain GAY couples last night raced to tie the knot in Britain’s first ever same-sex wedding ceremonies in what David Cameron called “an important moment for our country”. Published: 00:11, Sat, Mar 29, 2014 By: Alison Little The rainbow flag flies over the British government Cabinet Office's building[AP] Several vied to be the first to say “I do” as the clock struck 12 and gay marriage became law in England and Wales. Mr Cameron’s spokeswoman said: “It will be a happy day for all those who can have their ceremonies because of the reforms that the Prime Minister has got through this Parliament.” Laws allowing gay marriage passed last summer with strong support from Mr Cameron despite dismay in many sections of the Conservative party. But Mr Cameron said he supported it because he believed passionately in the institution of marriage. Writing for gay paper PinkNews today, the Prime Minister welcomed “an important moment for our country” as the state recognised gay and straight relationships as equal. He said the state should never deny anyone the kind of “incredible” lifelong partnership he had found with wife Samantha. Mr Cameron declared: “When someone’s love is divided by law, it is the law that needs to change.” Enabling same-sex marriage showed Britain would “continue to honour its proud traditions of respect, tolerance and equal worth” and would reassure young people uncertain about their sexuality that they were equal, straight or gay”. It would “create an environment where people are no longer bullied because of their sexuality and where they can realise their potential, whether as a great mathematician like Alan Turing, a star of stage and screen like Sir Ian McKellen”, he said. The rainbow flag, a symbol of the gay community, was flying today over Government buildings. One of the first couples to marry were actor and theatre director Andrew Wale, 49, and guesthouse owner Neil Allard, 38, from Hove in Sussex in Brighton’s Royal Pavilion. Andrew Wale, left, and Neil Allard, were among the first couples to marry today [M AND Y NEWS] When someone’s love is divided by law, it is the law that needs to change David Cameron At London’s Royal Festival Hall, broadcaster Sandi Toksvig and her civil partner Debbie Toksvig were to renew their vows. Gay marriages will not happen in Anglican or Roman Catholic churches – both denominations oppose the law – but some religious groups will stage ceremonies including the Society of Friends (Quakers) and the Liberal Judaism movement. Yesterday the Bishop of Buckingham, the Rt Rev Alan Wilson, several retired bishops, some Jewish rabbis and a leading Quaker signed a letter saying they” rejoiced” that same sex couples would be able to marry. Ukip said it was not in favour if the European Court of Human Rights made churches carry out ceremonies. Leader Nigel Farage said he feared the Church of England would be “dragged through the courts in Strasbourg”. Related articles * Ukip making a U-turn on gay marriage, reveals Nigel Farage * Should same-sex marriages have been legalised? Comments Unavailable Sorry, we are unable to accept comments about this article at the moment. However, you will find some great articles which you can comment on right now in our Comment section. Most Read Stories in UK * 1 EXCLUSIVE: ‘McCanns will lose £1m libel trial’ Judge’s initial findings go against couple EXCLUSIVE: ‘McCanns will lose £1m libel trial’ Judge’s initial findings go against couple * 2 EXCLUSIVE: Monsters given their own cell keys! Ian Huntley and Rose West 'roaming at will' EXCLUSIVE: Monsters given their own cell keys! Ian Huntley and Rose West 'roaming at will' * 3 Hitler's secret airstrips that were built by spies in Norfolk Hitler's secret airstrips that were built by spies in Norfolk * 4 Migrant who had sex with 13-year-old girl claims he thought it was a 'cultural norm' in UK Migrant who had sex with 13-year-old girl claims he thought it was a 'cultural norm' in UK * 5 Rowan Atkinson puts infamous McLaren F1 on the market - for £8MILLION Rowan Atkinson puts infamous McLaren F1 on the market - for £8MILLION Britain's most notorious criminals given keys own prison cells Ian Huntley Rose West Britain's most notorious criminals given keys own prison cells Ian Huntley Rose West EXCLUSIVE: Monsters given their own cell keys! Ian Huntley and Rose West 'roaming at will' ‘McCanns will lose £1m trial' Portuguese judge’s initial findings against Kate and Gerry ‘McCanns will lose £1m trial' Portuguese judge’s initial findings against Kate and Gerry EXCLUSIVE: ‘McCanns will lose £1m libel trial’ Judge’s initial findings go against couple Islamic State calls for ‘lone wolf’ terror attacks in UK gives tips on planning rampages Islamic State calls for ‘lone wolf’ terror attacks in UK gives tips on planning rampages IS calls for ‘lone wolf’ terror attacks in UK Adolf Hitler Norfolk second world war Adolf Hitler Norfolk second world war Hitler's secret airstrips that were built by spies in Norfolk Parents schoolboy killed toxic flood fumes warn families contaminated water Parents schoolboy killed toxic flood fumes warn families contaminated water EXCLUSIVE: 'Toxic flood fumes killed our boy. It must not happen to another' Ebola Irn Bru Pauline Cafferkey Ebola Irn Bru Pauline Cafferkey Ebola survivor Pauline Cafferkey says Irn Bru helped her pull through Mother demands policewoman saved her son give evidence at Bednar inquest Mother demands policewoman saved her son give evidence at Bednar inquest EXCLUSIVE: Mother demands policewoman who could have saved her son give evidence MoD caught spending £175,000 on spying wounded soldiers compensation claims MoD caught spending £175,000 on spying wounded soldiers compensation claims EXCLUSIVE: MoD caught spying on wounded soldiers Tristan Dawe Cerebral palsy sunday express Tristan Dawe Cerebral palsy sunday express 'Mummy, I can wiggle my toes': Five-year-old boy walks for the first time Ebola nurse Pauline Cafferkey recovered virus discharged hospital Ebola nurse Pauline Cafferkey recovered virus discharged hospital British Ebola nurse makes FULL RECOVERY from deadly virus and is discharged from hospital Machete attack Gloucester pub teenager hacked to death Machete attack Gloucester pub teenager hacked to death First picture of teenager brutally killed in machete attack outside Gloucester pub [1] HOROSCOPES APPS WEATHER PAPER * HOME * NEWS + UK + WORLD + SHOWBIZ + ROYAL + NATURE + POLITICS + HISTORY + WEIRD + WWI + OBITUARIES + SCOTLAND + SUNDAY * SPORT + FOOTBALL + TRANSFER NEWS + CRICKET + TENNIS + GOLF + F1 + RUGBY UNION + HORSE RACING + BOXING + OTHER SPORT * COMMENT + COLUMNISTS + EXPRESS COMMENT + BEACHCOMBER + CARTOON * FINANCE + CITY & BUSINESS + PERSONAL FINANCE + THE CRUSADER * TRAVEL + ACTIVITY + BEACH + CRUISE + SHORT BREAKS + TRAVEL NEWS * ENTERTAINMENT + FILMS + TV & RADIO + BOOKS + THEATRE + MUSIC + TV LISTINGS * LIFE & STYLE + HEALTH + DIETS + LIFE + GARDEN + FOOD + STYLE + PROPERTY + TECH + CARS + SATURDAY + S MAG + WIN + RETIREMENT + TOP 10 FACTS * PUZZLES + HOROSCOPE + OFFERS + PUZZLES + COMPETITIONS + BINGO * PICS * VIDS todays-paper TODAY'S PAPER Sunday, 25th January 2015 See today's front and back pages, download the newspaper, order back issues and use the historic Daily Express newspaper archive. Privacy Policy Contact Us Cookie Policy Advertising Sitemap Design by Netro42 Terms Syndication and Licensing Copyright ©2015 Northern and Shell Media Publications. "Daily Express" is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. * Daily Star * OK! Magazine * new! Magazine * Star Magazine * Health Lottery #next The Catholic Union of Great Britain » Feed The Catholic Union of Great Britain » Comments Feed The Catholic Union of Great Britain » same sex marriage Tag Feed Catholic Union logo The Catholic Union of Great Britain The Voice of Catholic Laity Menu Skip to content * Home * About Us + Biographies + Chairman’s Message + Council + History + Objectives * Contact Us * Events + Past Events * FAQ * Join Us * Legal + Cookie Policy + Copyright + Sitemap * News * Our Work + Education + Medical Ethics + Membership & Communication + Outreach + Parliamentary Affairs o About the PPAC * Resources + Archive Tag Archives: same sex marriage Summary notes of the meeting of the Parliamentary & Public Affairs Committee 13th May 2014 Correspondence The Chairman had prepared a short summary of points from the last meeting for Archbishop Peter Smith, copied to his own Archbishop Bernard Longley, and also to the Cardinal via his sectary. There had been no acknowledgement, but he hoped to meet with Archbishop Longley and with the Cardinal’s secretary and find out if this was of any interest. Catholic Medical Alliance Submission on Mitochondrial Donation Both the PPAC and the CMA had made a submission to the consultation. This was basically about how it should be done, not whether it should be done. There were two possible methods of ‘mitochondrial engineering’: * Pronuclear transfer: a fertilised embryo is taken from an egg with faulty mitochondria and inserted into an egg with healthy mitochondria from which the fertilised embryo has been removed and discarded. * Maternal spindle transfer: The nucleus is removed from an egg with faulty mitochondria and inserted into an egg with healthy mitochondria from which the nucleus has been removed. This egg is then fertilised. * The first method kills an embryo while the second does not. However both involve alteration of the germ line and we did not know if it was safe. The Government’s committee said there was no evidence it was unsafe. The principal non-ethical objection was safety. The legislation is likely to be whipped and will open a Pandora’s Box on the subject. Abortion There had been a much recent debate on this and a number of Catholic MPs had spoken. There was a drive for legal action against 67 doctors using pre-signed forms. The DPP had pushed this across to the GMC which had told them it was illegal and they must not do it again. The GMC thought the practice was so common they couldn’t do anything except in the case of gendercide. This was in hand with the all-party life group led by Jim Dobbin MP, which is working with the Metropolitan Police and the DPP. Fiona Bruce MP was asking the attorney general what action he had taken. The Chairman had received letters from Baroness Knight who wishes to call a meeting in the Lords about the false nature of the form all pre-signed for category “C”, risk to themental health of the mother. There is probably no risk, but it is unclear whether this has been looked into. Assisted Suicide The document “Living and Dying Well” said the law deters but is flexible. Prosecutions are almost nil. Concern is not just for the terminally ill but for the suffering. The Nicklinson case would not be covered by the bill which is therefore not honest. The Court of Appeal has passed it to the Supreme Court but it won’t change the law; that is for Parliament to do. The DPP’s guidance falls into two classes. Class 1: where the assistor is a family member and the deceased is mentally capable. Class 2: Doctors and ‘strangers’, where the guidance is not sufficiently clear. This is now in the Supreme Court. The Royal Society of GPs stated this bill would spoil the relationship with patients and palliative care would lose funding; a neutral stance would be seen as acceptance. Sir Edward Leigh MP said that altough he always voted against, pressure was relentlessly growing and the state was increasingly concerned with the cost of rising numbers of elderly dementia patients. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference’s brief document “Sense and nonsense on assisted dying” (circulated) was a valuable contribution and would be distributed to the entire CU membership. Same sex marriage Northern Ireland This was defeated again 53 to 48. The subject of the consultation draft on “Applying Equality Law in practice for Catholics” was raised. Reactions and comments were to be submitted by the end of May. “Safe at School” campaign The latest bulletin for (not just Catholic) parents describes what is being taught in schools. The materials used in Catholic schools are usually less damaging than those in state schools, but can still cause problems. Sex education must remain non-compulsory. There is a move to update the 2000 Guidelines; the consultation was for teachers and students but parents had been omitted and there was nothing about love and marriage. The Government is resisting this move. A good Catholic resource, “This is my Body” is available. A Christian Country? The prime minister claimed over the Easter that this country remains essentially Christian, but the Cardinal had countered by saying that with SSM, the country had lost the last vestige of the Judeo-Christian ethos. The chief Rabbi however had said “of course we are a Christian country”. The prevailing ethos seemed to be “I have the right to have what I want and to ignore your opinion”. Most people now think religion is not in the public interest. Any Other Business There was a debate on Catholic “Free” schools: would the Government give way on capping Catholic admissions at 50% as demanded by the Liberal Democrats? There were a large number of Catholic Academies – now more in thrall than ever to the DofE. Parents, school and parish working together gives stability. This entry was posted in News, Parliamentary Affairs and tagged abortion, Education, faith schools, religious education, same sex marriage, sex education, Westminster on May 30, 2014 by JohnTabor. Summary proceedings of the Parliamentary & Public Affairs Committee 8th April 2014 Chairman’s Announcements The chairman welcomed a new member of the committee, Patricia Stoat as per last month’s announcement. Correspondence The chairman referred to a letter to the Daily Telegraph from Jim Dobbin, Sir Edward Leigh and others on the benefits of marriage to society. He noted the government was, belatedly, introducing a modest transferable tax allowance which seemed an acknowledgement of marriage as a public force for good. Euthanasia of children in Belgium The cardinal archbishop of Malines and a rabbi had issued a strong statement condemning this. 40 paediatricians had written that in their experience no child had ever requested death. However, it was now suggested the law should be extended to allow the euthanasia of children at the decision of the parents alone. The law had been signed by Philippe I, nominally a Catholic monarch. Abortion This is still a live issue in parliament. Baroness Knight asked if the law on abortion was beingupheld but did not receive a straight answer. Baroness Hollins, (past president of the BMA), Lord Alton, Lord Patten and Lord Mackay of Clashfern asked about gender based abortion. The Government said it was illegal and would examine the ratio of male to female births. Fiona Bruce MP asked about abortion on “Ground E” – disability- and gave examples of trivial cases. The Chief Medical Officer had sent a letter to doctors reminding them of their duties without publishing the Contents. The Government seems very casual about enforcement of the Act and was still considering relaxation of the law to allow nurse-only abortions. It said new guidelines were in draft but again not published. Gary Streeter MP was asking for a full debate on these guidelines. There will also be debate on the RSOP (Required Standard Operating Procedures for licencing premises for abortions). A legal case in the north of England claimed that injury to a foetus was an assault; it was considered likely to fail since legally a person did not exist until born. However, the right of the unborn have never been defined. The chairman had written to Baroness Hollins, thanking her for her intervention and had included two papers showing that mental health problems as grounds for abortion were spurious. Mitochondrial Donation Lord Alton had made a strong statement about MD in so far as it alters the genetic composition of future generations, would be against international law and he claimed would make the UK a rogue state. There had been a campaign entitled “One of Us” aimed at limiting the misuse of embryos. It had sought a million signatures to trigger a debate in the European parliament. It had obtained 1.7 million and the debate would be on 9^th April. Falconer Bill on Assisted Dying This is likely to be brought back to the Lords after the Queen’s speech. Opposing such measures would best done as part of a coalition, ie with the“Care not Killing” group. There are now 193 new peers and their views on this issue were unknown. “Care not Killing” would approach these and try to elucidate their views without making any effort to persuade. In general, public opinion appeared to be moving towards assisted dying. An assisted dying bill was likely to be brought forward in Scotland at year end, after the referendum. Baroness Butler-Sloss, formerly president of the family division of the high court, has warned that assisted dying would put many vulnerable people at risk. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference’s brief document “Sense and nonsense on assisted dying” (circulated) was a valuable contribution. Modern Slavery Bill and Global Freedom Network The Bill was intended to consolidate and simplify existing legislation and to support victims. There had recently been a meeting in the Vatican of the Global Freedom Network, supported by Catholics, and other faiths. The meeting made the following declaration: “Modern slavery and human trafficking are crimes against humanity. The physical, economic and sexual exploitation of men, women and children condemn 30 million people to dehumanisation and degradation”. There will be a high level meeting in Rome between police chiefs, church leaders and others to establish more ties between the Church and the police. The emphasis would move from punishing the offenders to helping the victims. Any Other Business Same Sex Marriage guidelines: the Equality and Human Rights web site stated that holding to the traditional view of marriage is not in itself an offence if expressed in moderation; teachers will be allowed to teach what they feel is right with regard to their faith. It was decided that in future selected items should be highlighted from each month’s minutes and sent to the appropriate member of the Bishops’ Conference, under the guidance of the Chairman. This entry was posted in News, Parliamentary Affairs and tagged abortion, Assisted Dying, Childhood Euthanasia, Ethics, Human Trafficking, Marriage, Mitochondrial Donation, Modern Slavery, same sex marriage on April 17, 2014 by JohnTabor. BIshop Egan on Secularism The following is a text of a lecture given by the Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev’d Philip Egan, at KIng’s College London. It is pithy and to the point. Bishop Egan – secularism March 2014 This entry was posted in News and tagged abortion, Catholic Church, Education, Ethics, Pope Benedict XVI, same sex marriage, Secularism, Westminster on March 11, 2014 by JohnTabor. Summary of the Parliamentary & Public Affairs Committee Meeting – 11th February 2014 Chairman’s Announcements David O’Mahony, a CU Council Member, was elected a member of the Committee. Correspondence The chairman had written to Jane Spencer at the Department of Health about the dangers of mitochondrial donations and the lack of an ethical framework. He asked for details of the advice received by the government. He received a reply from a senior official, saying there was an expert committee that had met three times and which advised that was no great danger in mitochondrial donation. There was no reply on the ethical basis. There was however a reference to a web site Catherine Sampson (sic). This is in fact a high powered scientific committee which has met twice and is due to meet again. Parliament in 2008 effectively cleared the way for mitochondrial donation. It was concluded it was safe for [laboratory animals] and should be tested on primates. If used on humans it should be followed up for a long time; this is not in fact a green light. There has been a public consultation, now finished. It looks as if the government are determined to introduce mitochondrial donation. In 2008 the government had removed the right for those born via IVF et al to know the identity of their biological parents. This would mean the subjects of mitochondrial donation could not be informed of this. There had been no answer on the subject of ethics. Britain has no medical ethics committee. “Consequential ethics” now seems popular, that is, the end justifies the means. Any action on this taken by the Bishops’ Conference is to be advised to the Committee in due course. MSP Vote on SSM 4^th February 2014 This vote in the Scottish parliament to redefine marriage was carried by 105 votes to 18 with supporters of traditional marriage subject to verbal abuse. Amendments to protect teachers, adopters, fosterers etc. were all defeated. Scotland is becoming very nearly a totalitarian society. Anyone who disagrees with same sex marriage will be called intolerant, discriminatory and hateful and may lose their position in public bodies. Further, the Children and Young Person’s bill introduces a “Named Person” imposed by the state on every child without consent and without opt-out whose function, according to the Bill “cannot be carried out by a parent of the child or young person”. People are regarding developments in Scotland as a social revolution. People now live in fear of being overheard in a public place, being reported to the police and arrested, in some cases held overnight. It was agreed the CU should revive an active committee to support John Deighan in presenting parliamentary developments to the Catholic public. The guidelines for sex education were being revised; this should be resisted because current guidelines give parents a very strong position to demand to know what was being taught. The Labour party had tried to introduce sex education into the primary curriculum but had been defeated. The Lunacek road map for LBGT rights has been overwhelmnigly accepted by the European Parliament. It calls for the criminalisation of homophobia throughout Europe, for same sex marriage in every country, for teaching of homosexual practice to all children from which parents may not dissent and people who speak out against are to be silenced. Plight of Syrian Refugees The government has now agreed to take in a limited number of Syrian refugees. A Syrian Catholic Bishop warned against the possibility of a mass exodus of educated Syrians, who would be needed during the process of reconstruction and development in the hopefully near future. Assisted Dying The Falconer Bill is not being put before the House of Lords, although Lord Falconer denied claims in a Times article (20^th January) that his Bill was about euthanasia, rather it was about allowing those terminally ill patients wishing to die access to drugs to enable them to do so. Belgium and Dutch law covers the non-terminally ill. A Bill on Assisted Dying is likely to be presented in the next session of Parliament, with input from Living and Dying Well, which will hopefully be better drafted than the Belgian and Dutch versions. Sir Edward Leigh MP – Further Questions on Abortion The government reported there had been an error in their previous reply. Sir Edward therefore asked the following questions: i. When the problem on the extraction of data had first started and what the government intended to do about it. ii. Is there any data on how many women seeking abortion had actually met the authorising medical practitioner; iii. How many of these practitioners have training in mental health issues. A ComRes poll had found that 95% of the public felt it was wrong for a woman to have an abortion without seeing doctor. Westminster Hall Speech on Marriage – Sir Edward Leigh MP This speech was well received by the press. The speech was part of a Westminster Hall debate about strengthening relationships among couples. Any Other Business Injunctions to prevent Nuisance and Annoyance replacing ASBOs had been defeated by the Lords and replaced by Injunctions against causing Harassment, Alarm or Distress. A UN committee on the Rights of the Child severely criticised the Holy See for concealing child abuse by priests. In fact responsibility here lies with diocesan bishops, not the Holy See, who must act in accordance with the civil law of the local jurisdiction which subsists to Canon Law. This entry was posted in News, Parliamentary Affairs and tagged abortion, Assisted Dying, civil partnerships, euthanasia, family life, same sex marriage, Scotland, sex education, Syria on February 24, 2014 by JohnTabor. Summary of the Parliamentary & Public Affairs Committee 17th December 2013 Chairman’s Announcements Mrs Josephine Robinson, a former Chairman (sic) of the Association of Catholic Women was elected to the Committee. Correspondence A letter had been written to the Prime Minister and the Dept. of Health regarding the proposal to allow the production of embryos with two mothers and one father (hoping to prevent mitochondrial disease in the child). Two near identical replies had been received, referring to an imminent consultation and to a commission of “international experts” who said there was no concern for safety. However, IVF is known to increase the risk of birth defects, cancer and mental retardation. It is irresponsible to predict no risk with this even more radical procedure. The Chairman would write to Jeremy Hunt and to his own MP, questioning the safety of this procedure and seeking the identity of the “international experts”. Same sex marriage in Scotland and Northern Ireland The debate in the Scottish Parliament on this issue has been astonishingly abusive. It is expected that the SSM Bill will be approved by early March 2014. The Chairman is due to talk to the Political Officer of the Scottish Bishops conference. The Northern Ireland Assembly will not entertain SSM, but will accept as civil partners, those same sex couples married elsewhere in the UK. Gender-based abortion The Government stated that the law would be enforced, but has also said there are many grounds for seeking an abortion. It is unlikely that the Government will do anything in this regard. Survey on Family Life There had been 12,000 responses nationally to this Vatican survey. There was uncertainty about what the survey was intended to accomplish or what it was capable of accomplishing. It was thought it might be about how care is provided to people in family life, in particular, sacramental care from the Church. Parliamentary Lobbying Bill This Bill could obstruct free speech prior to General Elections. CAFOD is making a list of Part One Catholic lobbyists; Caritas Social Care of Part Two lobbyists with a view to joint approaches to the Government. Extension of euthanasia in Belgium The Belgian Parliament has passed legislation whereby children of 12 and below with terminal illness and unbearable pain could choose to die, or their parents and next of kin, where such consent is unavailable, could do so in their place When they are near to death, these children are claimed to increase in maturity. There were 1,132 cases of euthanasia in 2012; 25% up on 2011.We should note this lest attempts are made to introduce it in England. Other approaches to child euthanasia were the LCP and the Groningen protocol in the Netherlands. Abortion on mental health grounds The chairman had given a Parliamentary Question to Sir Edward Leigh. It said abortions were being carried out on Ground C (risk to the mother’s mental health) without mental health being assessed and by doctors not trained to assess mental health. There is a statement by the Academy of Royal Colleges that there is no difference to the mother’s mental health whether she has an abortion or gives birth What is currently going on is fraudulent. It was suggested that the thrust of the argument should move away from time limits, to pointing out the number of fraudulent abortions being carried out in a local area, to make it real to people. The late Phyllis Bowman (LIFE) used to say she would be perfectly content if the Abortion law were honoured. However, it would be necessary to convince juries that there is no risk to mental health. The CU and others should continue to raise awareness and press that Ground C be removed or at least observed. Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill This Bill provides that if a nuisance or annoyance is caused to any person, they can apply for an Injunction to Prevent Nuisance and Annoyance (or IPNAS). The Christian Institute has pointed out this could conceivably cover carol singing, street preaching, children playing football in the street. Local Authorities, police and private security firms can also hand out Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) in order to restrict any activity deemed to have a “detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality”. It was hoped that common sense would prevail in such cases. Persecution of Christians – Westminster Hall Debate 3^rd December This debate was initiated by Jim Shannon MP (DUP). He said Christianity is the most persecuted religion at the present time. One Christian dies for their faith every eleven minutes. Persecution starts with discrimination in business, in civic life, education and politics. In some countries it was illegal to possess a Bible and there was forcible conversion to Islam. Sir Edward Leigh MP said that the worst crisis no one had ever heard of is in Pakistan. Western intervention could make things worse (lecturing by former colonial masters). However many countries persecuting Christians receive money from the UK Government. Any other Business Assisted Dying Bill – This had been shelved for now, but a more comprehensive version will be introduced in the next session of Parliament. The Supreme Court is considering Article 8 rights to respect for private life for Nicklinson/Lamb. Protection of the Vulnerable – NHS England had set up the LACDP (Leadership Alliance for the Care of Dying People) to advise the Secretary of State for Health by 6^th January 2014, on what should replace the LCP. Dr Cole had met its chair, Dr Bee Wee, and had agreed that anyone entering hospital should have confidence that they would receive evidence-based treatment compassionately and ethically applied. “More Care Less Pathway” had been set up to counter it and seek a meeting with Norman Lamb MP, minister for health, to slow the process and give time for the counter views (now accepted by the BCEW) to be considered. This entry was posted in News, Parliamentary Affairs and tagged abortion, Assisted Dying, Catholic Church, civil partnerships, euthanasia, family life, gender-based abortion, Marriage, mental capacity, persecution of Christians, same sex marriage, Westminster on January 2, 2014 by JohnTabor. Marriage Statistics in the United Kingdom CU Vice Chairman John Barrie writes: Dear Members It was brought to my attention only yesterday, Monday 9th December 2013, that the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has a consultation which expires next Tuesday 17th December 2013, concerning the desirability of merging statistics for same sex couples and for opposite sex couples and for civil partnerships. The document is entitled: Consultation Marriage Statistics Oct 2013 If you have a view on this topic you may care to complete and return the document to: Lyn Hawkins, Consultations Co-ordinator vsob@ons.gsi.gov.uk Yours sincerely John UPDATE : 17th December 2013 Statement on ONS marriage and divorce statistics consultation ONS would like to thank all users who have contributed so far to the consultation‘User requirements for marriage, divorce and civil partnership statistics given the introduction of marriage of same sex couples‘. ONS would like to clarify that it is not proposing to produce only total figures for marriages where the distinction between same sex and opposite sex couples is not available. ONS do intend to publish marriage and divorce statistics in the future where figures for opposite sex and same sex couples are shown separately. ONS are consulting on the characteristics of these marriages/divorces which are of particular interest so that published statistics meet user requirements. This entry was posted in News and tagged civil partnerships, Marriage, same sex marriage on December 10, 2013 by JohnTabor. Summary of the Parliamentary & Public Affairs Committee 22nd October 2013 Chairman’s Announcements The Committee for 2013-2014 was announced. The Officers of the Committee remain as before, although Angela Gracey has retired and Rosalind Bearcroft, together with Stuart Sexton, is vice chair. There are presently three vacancies and names were sought to fill these. Lord Falconer is now in the Shadow Cabinet so will not be advancing an assisted dying bill for now, although something akin to it might be put forward in Scotland. Same Sex Marriage C4M intend to keep the fight alive on this issue and not let politicians off the hook. The Committee’s view was that this issue is now behind us. End of Life Care The Catholic Medical Association has put out a statement on end of life care and Dr Tony Cole was congratulated by the Committee for all his hard work in helping to bring about the demise of the Liverpool Care Pathway. NHS Trusts are looking at end of life procedures. An end of life care Bill of Rights is now under considerations by such groups as Living & Dying Well. There was a discussion on gender-based abortion – in the majority of cases these are undertaken given the supposed unstable mental state of the mother. Failure to prosecute for such abortions was felt to be an ethical, rather than a judicial matter. All Party Group on international freedom of religion or belief This group has written a letter signed by a number of MPs, asking the Government to appoint an ambassador for international freedom of religion or belief. Proposed anti-slavery Bill This welcome proposal seeks to disrupt gang trafficking amongst men and women and also to offer some form of help to the victims. The Bishops would be meeting with Frank Field MP to discuss this further. Parliamentary Lobbying Bill “Transparency of Lobbying, Non-party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Bill 2013-14”. It was intended to limit the ability influence elections. It would limit spend and increase the scope of activities covered. The Bill: * introduces a statutory register of consultant lobbyists and establishes a Registrar to enforce the registration requirements; * regulates more closely election campaign spending by those not standing for election or registered as political parties ; * Strengthens the legal requirements placed on trade unions in relation to their obligation to keep their list of members up to date. It could have a chilling effect on some charities. “One of Us” Campaign This campaign aims to acquire a million signatures with a view to opening a debate in the European Parliament on ending funding from research using embryonic stem cells (we can’t destroy embryos because they are “one of us”). This entry was posted in News, Parliamentary Affairs and tagged abortion, Assisted Dying, care pathway, freedom of religion, gender-based abortion, persecution of Christians, same sex marriage, Scotland on November 7, 2013 by JohnTabor. “The Narrow Gate” – A Reflection by the Archbishop of Westminster Following the passing of legislation regarding same sex marriage, the Archbishop of Westminster, the Most Rev’d Vincent Nichols, has published a reflection on marriage and its true meaning, as well as the Church’s view on civil partnerships and the consequences of same sex marriage. The full text is available here This entry was posted in News and tagged Catholic Church, freedom of religion, religious education, same sex marriage on August 7, 2013 by JohnTabor. Summary of the Parliamentary & Public Affairs Committee Meeting 16th July 2013 Chairman’s Announcements An outline report was given of a meeting held in late June between the Catholic Union, represented by Robert Rigby and John Barrie and the Bishops’ Conference, represented by Mgr Marcus Stock and Charles Wookey. During the course of the meeting, it was suggested that the Catholic Union should consult other Catholic bodies to ascertain possible areas of alignment and synergy. Introductions to a number of prominent Catholics in public life were offered, as the Catholic Union could play a role in bringing Catholics together. Subsequent to the meeting a memorandum was received suggesting that the Catholic Union is out of step in today’s world. A measured response has been sent to the Bishops’ Conference. The Chairman considered that the PPAC membership is a good example of linking with other organisations, given the scope of memberships and affiliations currently enjoyed by the PPAC members. The Married Couples’ Tax Allowance has been accepted by the Government and will appear in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement Same Sex Marriage A letter had been received from Oliver Letwin MP regarding same sex marriage and safeguards for teachers who teach traditional marriage. The letter made clear that Mr Letwin regards same sex marriage as nothing more than a ceremony and so has no idea of the wider ramifications and time-honoured role of true marriage in society. The Prime Minister is understood to regard same sex marriage as merely a “relabeling” of the wedding ceremony. With regard to the safeguards for teachers, this appeared to be seen as straightforward and of little issue. The House Lords did not feel that they should frustrate the will of the elected chamber (from where many of their number have come). 10 Amendments were moved – these were moderate and well-phrased – all were defeated. The legislation has been rushed through and is badly drafted. The law will be tested in the Courts. There were a total of 55 Lords Amendments. The campaign against same sex marriage will have to be carried on from a Catholic perspective. The position for teachers and others will be extremely difficult, since they will be tied by both SSM legislation and the Equality Act. It was pointed out that although the Bill has been passed, pressure against the law should be maintained by members of the Union and by the public, so that David Cameron is not allowed to forget the opposition this measure has generated. This pressure should be maintained until the 2015 General Election at least. Neuberger Review – The Liverpool Care Pathway The final report is extremely welcome. The Liverpool Care Pathway is to be terminated with immediate effect and replaced with individual care plans in consultation with patients and relatives. The CMA has put together a list of 6 key questions that families and patients can ask, which include, how near to death is the patient, what is the effect of the drugs likely to be and will they suffer thirst. The Falconer Bill on Assisted Dying is due in the autumn. There has been a softening of language and a gradual change in attitude. Embryology – Question by Lord Alton in the Lords The Government is set to introduce regulation by 2014 so that Medical Research Council guidelines become standard practice. It was noted that germ line medical procedure is extremely risky. The Committee was advised that Josephine Quintavalle is taking the lead on countering this with a meeting in October to gather one million signatures in order to procure a debate on the matter in the European Parliament. School Governors and Local Councillors The position of local councillors and school governors as Catholics working at a local level “on the front line”, trying to ensure compatibility between their beliefs and what is asked of them. The case of the Plymouth Brethren, a narrow, yet extremely law abiding Protestant sect, who do not wish to engage with the secular agenda and thereby risk losing their charitable status, was given as a case in point. The secular agenda is increasingly incompatible with Christian belief and mores Persecuted Christians The general feeling is that this is a very low priority for the FCO. President Assad protects the Christians as part of the pluralist society in Syria. Arming the rebels would be unhelpful in this regard. The exemplary work of Baroness Cox in working against Christian persecution globally was cited. This entry was posted in News, Parliamentary Affairs and tagged care pathway, Catholic Church, faith schools, Local Councillors, persecution of Christians, religious education, same sex marriage, School Governors on August 2, 2013 by JohnTabor. Summer Briefing 2013 July 2013 The past three months have seen continued activity in the Catholic Union, both internally and externally. We have recently had the Summer Gathering, held on Saturday 6th July, at St Augustine’s Priory, Ealing, with those who attended having a chance to not only catch up informally but also hear about the issues of the day facing Catholics in this country as well debate how we as an organisation can grow. The various Committees continue to meet regularly and we had the opportunity for an update from a number of the chairmen at the recent Council meeting. The Parliamentary & Public Affairs Committee has been much taken up with discussing the implications of the Marriage (same sex couples) Bill. This is, in all likelihood, going to become law very soon. As Catholics, we have a clear duty to both our consciences and to upholding the common good in our society. The Bill has been at Committee stage in the House of Lords, where members of the Catholic Union, especially Lord Brennan, Lord Alton, as well as Lord Hylton and others (including those such as Lord Dear, of no particular religious belief) have worked hard to put forward amendments to protect the rights of people to religious belief, the protection of registrars and other public servants and importantly the issue of education concerning marriage for future generations. The implications of this Bill upon our society are grave. As Catholics we have an opportunity to stand up for and defend our beliefs in the cause of the Common Good. The Membership & Communications Committee is continuing to look at ways of positioning the Union – in terms of increased membership, and with the Outreach Committee helping to increase our funding. Lord Brennan has been of great assistance here as too, have several key figures in the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, with whom I met recently and had a very useful and positive exchange of ideas. In order to develop we need to grow, both in terms of human and financial capital. Our revamped website – www.catholicunion.org.uk – is now nearing the end of its revamp and is a good shop window onto our various activities. I do encourage you to visit it and give feedback. We also have a new strapline, “The voice of Catholics in public life”, which neatly summarises the evolving and developing role of the Catholic Union, both over the past 170 years, as well as beyond. I wish you and your families a peaceful and refreshing summer. Robert Rigby Chairman This entry was posted in Membership & Communication, News and tagged Catholic Church, same sex marriage, The Common Good on July 26, 2013 by JohnTabor. Post navigation ← Older posts Search for: ____________________ Search Join Us Topics abortion adoption Ampleforth Abbey Archbishop of Westminster Assisted Dying care pathway Catechism Catholic Church Catholic legislators Catholic Union Catholic Union Charitable Trust Catholic Young Writers civil partnerships Education eminent Catholics Ethics euthanasia faith schools family life freedom of conscience freedom of religion Freedom of the Press gender-based abortion Jordan Liverpool Care Pathway Local Councillors Marriage mental capacity Midwives organ donation Palliative Care persecution of Christians Pope Francis prayer and fasting religious discrimination religious education same sex marriage School Governors Scotland sex education succession to the Crown Syria The Common Good The Just War Westminster Follow us on… Visit Us On Facebook Visit Us On Twitter Visit Us On Linkedin RSS Christian Institute Headlines * Christian school: Parents appalled by Ofsted report * Sex-selective abortion could be outlawed in months * Govt ‘sorry’ over Christian group conference ban * Named Person legal challenge dismissed – appeal considered * US court overturns ultrasound abortion law * Ten-year-olds being given contraceptive implant * Team GB mum: ‘Doctors told me to abort but I won’t’ * Sky announces automatic online porn block * MEP ‘appalled’ by Ofsted inspectors’ questions * The Times reports topless pics dropped by The Sun Proudly powered by WordPress This site uses cookies (BUTTON) Accept cookiesFind out more #Default home feed publisher Jobs Property Directory Family Notices Mail Cashback Dating BuySell Book an Ad Buy a Photo Cookie Policy Facebook Twitter Newsletters ____________________ (BUTTON) * * * 5 day forecast » View our FREE mobile and tablet apps Birmingham Mail Birmingham Mail Subscriptions Sign up now for 25% OFF * Most read * Live feeds * What's on Sections Latest What's On Arts & Culture Comedy Family & Kids Film & TV Food & Drink Music & Nightlife Competitions Top What's On Sir Harry's review: Does this chippy deserve a knighthood? Most Read in What's on + Take Me Out: Klaudia is the new girl with the Polish name and the Brummie accent + Family Day out pictures from Saint Nicolas Place, Kings Norton. Gallery: Saracen's Head in Kings Norton after BBC Restoration funding + Samantha Batey (as Aretha Franklin) with Harry Hill Stars In Their Eyes contestant's Aretha Franklin moment + Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi and his house in Lapworth, Warwickshire Live like a rock god... Tony Iommi's house on market for £3 million Trending Today Carl Chinn Tony Iommi Ozzy Osbourne Robert Plant Led Zeppelin Popular this week Great Birmingham Run The Property Show Restaurant Reviews Broad Street Walk of Stars * News Sections Latest News Local News Midlands News UK News Homes and Property Politics Crime Nostalgia Showbiz Health Top News The Birmingham Hotel in Goldern Hillock Road The Birmingham Hotel: 'Under-age' girls in underwear fled before police swoop Most Read in News + The Birmingham Hotel in Goldern Hillock Road The Birmingham Hotel: 'Under-age' girls in underwear fled before police swoop + Still of punchup at the Bullring Watch: Bullring mass brawl erupts in front of horrified shoppers + Still from the film Slender Men Spooky Slender Men spotted in Cannock + Kriss Marco Halesowen X Factor finalist faces eviction from home + Katie Redford played Sarah Platt in Coronation Street Midland actress ditched from Coronation Street after lying about her age is targeted by trolls Trending Today Simon Cowell Beyonce The Queen Ozzy Osbourne Sharon Osbourne Popular this week Restaurant Reviews Primary School Ratings Pride of Birmingham Awards Weddings * Sport Sections Latest Sport Aston Villa Birmingham City West Brom Wolves Football Rugby Cricket Other Sport National Sport Sport Opinion Top Sport Darren Bent Aston Villa: Paul Lambert is taking Villa in the wrong direction - Darren Bent Most Read in Sport + Darren Bent Aston Villa: Paul Lambert is taking Villa in the wrong direction - Darren Bent + West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis West Brom have to get the players I want in the January transfer window - Tony Pulis + Gary Rowett, manager of Birmingham City Birmingham City: Gary Rowett on Demarai Gray exit rumours, why he rested him and FA Cup defeat to West Brom + Gary Rowett, manager of Birmingham City UPDATED: Birmingham City 1 West Brom 2 - Blues writer Brian Dick's full time report and pictures + Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert during the FA Cup tie against Blackpool Aston Villa v Bournemouth: Gregg Evans looks at the reasons for Villa to be optimistic + Birmingham City fans ahead of the game with West Bromwich Albion at St Andrew's Pictures: Birmingham City fans in the crowd at St Andrew's at the West Brom game Trending Today Paul Lambert Darren Bent Paul Robinson Roy Keane Demarai Gray Popular this week Fabian Delph Aston Villa fixtures Wolverhampton Wanderers fixtures west bromwich albion fixtures birmingham city fixtures * Nostalgia * Celebs * In Your Area A-B + Acocks Green + Aston and Nechells + Bartley Green and Weoley + Billesley and Hall Green + Birmingham City Centre + Bordesley Green and Small Heath + Bournville + Bromsgrove + Brownhills C-I + Cannock + Castle Bromwich + Cotteridge + Digbeth + Dorridge + Dudley + Edgbaston + Erdington + Hagley + Halesowen + Handsworth and Soho + Harborne J-Q + Kings Heath and Stirchley + Kings Norton and Brandwood + Kingstanding and Oscott + Ladywood + Lichfield + Longbridge, Rubery and Rednal + Moseley + Northfield + Perry Barr + Quinton R-S + Redditch + Rugeley + Sandwell + Selly Oak + Shard End + Sheldon + Solihull + Sparkbrook + Stourbridge + Sutton Coldfield T-Z + Tamworth + Walsall + Warley + Washwood Heath and Hodge Hill + West Bromwich + Wolverhampton + Yardley and Stechford Trending Birmingham Pub Bombings Great Birmingham 10K Run Weather Barclaycard Arena * Blues * Villa * West Brom * Wolves * Food & Drink * Home * News * Midlands News * Birmingham City Council Watch the moment gay couple tie the knot in Birmingham for the first time * Mar 29, 2014 13:05 * By Birmingham Mail Nearly 30 years after first meeting, Stephen Trinder and David Hensonnow have the same rights as every other married couple in Britain and like most newlyweds, a honeymoon is on the cards * Share * Share * Tweet * +1 * Email [banners_desktop_birmingham.jpg] David Henson and Stephen Trinder were the first same-sex couple to marry in Birmingham VIEW GALLERY Meet Mr and Mr Trinder, They made history today by becoming the first gay couple to wed in Birmingham when same-sex marriage became legal in Britain. Stephen Trinder, 60, from Handsworth, and partner David Henson, 53, from Leamington, have been together for 26 years and after grabbing the earliest possible slot, they left Birmingham register office shortly after 10am a married couple. Video loading Nearly 30 years after first meeting, they now have the same rights as every other married couple in Britain and like most newlyweds, a honeymoon is on the cards. They chose a subtle ceremony, followed by a small reception and a sunset cruise along the city’s canals and plan to head to Portugal next week. Stephen said: “It feels absolutely fabulous to be married. I’m so proud to be a Brummie and to make history in my home city that I love so much. “My great-great-grandfather got married in a register office all that time ago and now I have been able to get married under a new law. “Birmingham’s motto is ‘forward’ and it’s always strived to achieve that. He added: “I love Birmingham and on a more personal note, I love David. Now we can be ourselves in front of the world every day.” David, a housing officer, said he feels ‘privileged’ to be part of such a momentous day. He said: “I chose to take Stephen’s surname because for me, it was important that we have the same name so we can be a family.” The couple added: “Many congratulations to everyone else who has gotten married today. And thank you for all the campaigning - and look at the good it has achieved.” The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act faced opposition from the Church of England, the Catholic Church, The Muslim Council of Great Britain, the Network of Sikh Organisations and the United Synagogue. This week, the Archbishop of Canterbury signalled that the Church of England would end its opposition to same-sex marriage. By Khaleda Rahman * Follow * birminghammail * @BirminghamMail Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. comments powered by Disqus Recently Published Birmingham Council will go ahead with plan to turn off 53 city CCTV cameras CCTV camera Official challenge to scheme from backbench councillors rejected by committee * Faith leaders converge for funeral of humanitarian Dr Mohammad Naseem * Your Communities: Poetry and music on agenda at art show Previous Articles Wedded bliss at last: Couple to tie knot in Birmingham's first gay wedding David Henson and Stephen Trinder Stephen Trinder and David Henson make history after being together for 26 years * Crooked dentist who stole £1.4m from NHS must repay the cash * Sport Relief: Grab a share of £100k community cash Related Tags Organisations Birmingham City Council In The News Handsworth and Soho Recommended in News * MP Steve McCabe and the walk-in centre in Selly Oak Conservative Party Birmingham walk-in centres MUST stay open to combat A&E crisis, says MP * Police Queen Elizabeth Hospital Handsworth woman injured after collision with car * Golfer Lee Westwood, the reaction on Twitter and tycoon Colin Davies BBC Solihull millionaire rescued by Lee Westwood tells how he thanked the golf hero * The Birmingham Hotel in Goldern Hillock Road Birmingham City Council The Birmingham Hotel: 'Under-age' girls in underwear fled before police swoop * Raymond Morris Cannock Chase Raymond Morris: Taxpayer funds funeral of Cannock Chase child killer * Kriss Marco X Factor Halesowen X Factor finalist faces eviction from home * Samantha Batey (as Aretha Franklin) with Harry Hill West Midlands Police Stars In Their Eyes contestant's Aretha Franklin moment Most Read in News The Birmingham Hotel in Goldern Hillock Road 1. Birmingham City Council The Birmingham Hotel: 'Under-age' girls in underwear fled before police swoop 2. Bullring Watch: Bullring mass brawl erupts in front of horrified shoppers 3. Cannock Spooky Slender Men spotted in Cannock 4. X Factor Halesowen X Factor finalist faces eviction from home 5. Coronation Street Midland actress ditched from Coronation Street after lying about her age is targeted by trolls BuySell Buy & sell items including cars and houses, or browse thousands of ads Recommended on the Mail * MP Steve McCabe and the walk-in centre in Selly Oak Conservative Party Birmingham walk-in centres MUST stay open to combat A&E crisis, says MP * Aston Villa's Ciaran Clark in action Aston Villa FC Aston Villa: Ciaran Clark says it is time for Aston Villa team to take the flak off Paul Lambert * Birmingham City fans ahead of the game with West Bromwich Albion at St Andrew's Birmingham City FC Pictures: Birmingham City fans in the crowd at St Andrew's at the West Brom game * Police Queen Elizabeth Hospital Handsworth woman injured after collision with car * Manager Paul Lambert of Aston Villa reacts Aston Villa FC Aston Villa victory over Bournemouth would kickstart the season * Golfer Lee Westwood, the reaction on Twitter and tycoon Colin Davies BBC Solihull millionaire rescued by Lee Westwood tells how he thanked the golf hero * Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert during the FA Cup tie against Blackpool Aston Villa FC Aston Villa v Bournemouth: Gregg Evans looks at the reasons for Villa to be optimistic * The Birmingham Hotel in Goldern Hillock Road Birmingham City Council The Birmingham Hotel: 'Under-age' girls in underwear fled before police swoop * Tony Pulis, manager of West Brom talks to Saido Berahino Alan Irvine Comment: West Brom are through but Tony Pulis has plenty of food for thought * Victor Anichebe celebrates after scoring the first goal for West Brom Birmingham City FC Comment: Battling Birmingham City give Rowett much to build on * Follow Us * Contact Us * Send A Story * Advertise * The Editor * Journalists Birmingham Mail Facebook Birmingham Mail Birmingham City FC News Aston Villa FC News West Bromwich Albion F.C. News Newsletter Birmingham Mail Daily News Twitter @birminghammail @BCFC_News @AVFC_News @bhamcommunities Contact us Got a story in your area? Is there something happening in your area you would like us to report on? Email newsdesk@birminghammail.co.uk Phone 0121 234 5000/5430 Postal Address BPM Media (Midlands) Floor 6, Fort Dunlop, Fort Parkway, Birmingham, B24 9FF Contacts Newsdesk 0121 234 5536/5564 newsdesk@birminghammail.co.uk Head of Web: Anna Jeys 0121 234 5280 Anna.Jeys@birminghammail.co.uk Picturedesk 0121 234 5251 picturedesk@birminghammail.co.uk Photosales: Patricia O'Gorman 0121 234 5450 photosales@birminghammail.co.uk Competitions and promotions: 0121 234 5707 Work experience queries workexperience@mrn.co.uk Organised a special event? Tell us about it and, if possible, send us a picture Paul Fulford 0121 234 5214 paul.fulford@birminghammail.co.uk Sell your story Syndication Editor: Jayne Thomson 0121 234 5536/5564 Jayne_Thomson@mrn.co.uk Send a story Email newsdesk@birminghammail.co.uk Phone 0121 234 5000/5430 Postal Address BPM Media (Midlands) Floor 6, Fort Dunlop, Fort Parkway, Birmingham, B24 9FF Birmingham Mail Advertise with the Birmingham Mail We reach over 784,967* unique users a month with dedicated coverage of Birmingham and the West Midlands. Over 66% of our visitors, who view over 4m* page impressions every month, are in the desirable ABC1 socio-economic groups. To book an advert with the Birmingham Mail team call 0121 234 5000, email jason.larner@trinitymirror.com or visit the Trinity Mirror Midlands website for more information. The Birmingham Mail is part of Trinity Mirror Midlands, offering you unique access to our audience across the region online and in print. *Source: Omniture (UK 6 month average Jan-Jun 12) / Survey Interactive 09 The Editor David Brookes Editor, Birmingham Mail Editor-in-Chief, Trinity Mirror Midlands Email david.brookes@trinitymirror.com Photo of David Brookes A born and bred Brummie, David was appointed editor of the Birmingham Mail in November 2009. He has over 30 years experience as a journalist in the West Midlands including editorships on the Coventry Telegraph and Sunday Mercury. Journalists Colin Tattum Birmingham City reporter Gregg Evans Aston Villa reporter Brian Dick West Bromwich Albion reporter Bill Howell Wolves reporter Nick McCarthy Crime Correspondent Anuji Varma Health Correspondent Neil Elkes Local Government Correspondent Emma McKinney Education Correspondent Graham Young Film writer News Local News Midlands News UK News World News Politics Crime Health Showbiz News Opinion Nostalgia Weird News Sport Aston Villa Birmingham City West Brom Wolves Football Rugby Cricket Other Sport National Sport Sport Opinion What's On Arts & Culture Comedy Family & Kids Film & TV Food & Drink Music & Nightlife Competitions Homes and Property In Your Area Birmingham City Centre Bournville Bromsgrove Digbeth Dudley Kings Heath Lichfield Moseley Solihull North Solihull South Sutton Coldfield Tamworth Walsall West Bromwich Wolverhampton View All Locations Buy, Sell & Tell Jobs Motors Property Business Directory Family Notices Mail Cashback Dating BuySell Reader Offers Book an Ad Buy a Photo Travel Useful Links Advertise with us Contact Us Subscriptions Sell Your Story About Us Feedback How to Complain Corrections & Clarifications Google Survey Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy Bands Directory one pixel graphics View: * Desktop * Mobile © Trinity Mirror Midlands You've landed on The Dog's Doodahs for mobile/tablet CONTINUE (Or go to the original DESKTOP SITE) * Home Home * Search Search Search for cards and gifts * Basket Basket 0 Items£0.00Basket * * Account Account * Menu Menu * * My Account * My Addresses * My Reminders * Pre-Pay * Shortlist * Saved Items * Order History * Change Password * Login * * Customer Services * Contact us * About Us * Choosing the best personalised card and gift * Personalising a card and gift * Terms & Conditions - updated * Terms of use/Privacy Policy * Customer Reviews * Our Blog * Sitemap * Cookies The Dog's Doodahs The Dog's Doodahs Welcome UK Gay Weddings 2014 On 29^th March the first same-sex marriages will take place in England and Wales. Any couple wishing to marry on that date will need to have given formal notice of their intention to marry by 13^th March. Same-sex couples in Scotland will be able to marry in October 2014. To mark the occasion, greeting card company TheDogsDoodahs.com has today issued a ‘Save the Date’ card for 29^th March to the press, along with a world map highlighting global differences in attitudes to homosexual relationships and marriage. The United Kingdom becomes the 16^th country to allow same-sex marriages, while some other countries recognise same-sex relationships in law although they do not have the status of marriage. By contrast, there are still many countries (highlighted in green and black) where homosexuality is punished by imprisonment and even death. TheDogsDoodahs.com (challenger brand to Moonpig in the personalised cards sector) has extended their range of Civil Partnership cards with Gay Wedding designs. Many of the existing wedding cards are also suitable for either heterosexual or same-sex couples. Jennie Rutterworth, Creative Director at TheDogsDoodahs.com, who celebrated her union with partner Emma in 2012, said: “We’ve been helping to celebrate marriage for a long time. A lot of our wedding cards are already suitable for both heterosexual and homosexual couples and to be honest we’ve always had Wedding cards in the Civil Partnership section online (we’re a little before our time here!). We try to use gender neutral names in the examples on the website too - the designs are for everyone.” * If you'd like to download our logo, please use this link: http://we.tl/IbGXEho10q * To download our map in high resolution or for web use, use: http://we.tl/oxvhr4xVXm *Note you may remove the reference to TheDogsDoodahs.com if using for non-commercial purposes. Interesting notes: * Civil Partnerships have been available to gay couples in the UK since 5^th December 2005. Although the Government initially estimated there would be between 11,000 and 22,000 civil partners in Great Britain by 2010, the actual figures are over 79,000 people in civil partnerships by the start of 2010. (Data source: http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/vsob2/civil-partnership-statistics--united-kingdom/2012/sty-trends-in-civil-partnerships.html) * Couples in civil partnerships will be able to convert to marriages if they wish. However, the Government is still making the changes necessary to allow this so it is anticipated this will not be possible until the end of 2014. * The Netherlands was the first country to extend marriage laws to include same-sex couples. Four couples were married at Amsterdam’s City Hall by mayor of Amsterdam Job Cohen at midnight on 1^st April 2001, when the bill came into effect. * Icelandic Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir and her partner become one of the first married same-sex couples in Iceland when the country legalised same-sex marriage in 2010. * Denmark was the first country to recognise same-sex relationships in law in 1989, but it wasn’t until 2012 that same-sex marriage was legalised. TheDogsDoodahs.com focuses primarily on humour, with the site owning and producing their own greeting cards. The company has a loyal fan-base who appreciate the ‘funnier and easier’ approach to cards that the site promises. Cards and gifts ordered before 2pm are sent the same day (Monday-Friday) from the UK mainland. For more information or samples please contact: ThoseNicePeople@TheDogsDoodahs.com / alex@hyperworldcontrol.com Back to List Search Search for cards and gifts What is it? [--Personalised Cards____] What's it for? [Browse All___________________] Who's it for? [Browse All___________] Styles [Browse All] Themes [X] Browse All [ ] Girly Stuff [ ] Blokey Stuff [ ] 1st Valentine's Day [ ] Drinkie-Poos [ ] Sex and Fantasies [ ] DESIGN IT YOURSELF [ ] Sports Humour [ ] Gay [ ] Toilet Humour [ ] Sorry not with u! [ ] Cute Animals [ ] Urine Extraction! [ ] Modern Life [ ] Ageing [ ] Age Specific [ ] Lovey-Dovey [ ] Sentimental [ ] To/From Pet [ ] Odds 'n' Sods [ ] Work [ ] Naughty Bits [ ] Arty-Farty [ ] Battle-Of-Sexes [ ] Sport [ ] Celebs TV Music [ ] Animal Humour [ ] Very Silly [ ] Fun & Funky [ ] Contemp Photo [ ] Whimsical Animals [ ] Poems [ ] 1st Mother's Day [ ] Cheeky! [ ] Squishy Wishes [ ] Teddies, etc [ ] Floral [ ] Graphical [ ] Typographical [ ] From Little 'uns [ ] Bah! Humbug! [ ] Xmas Abroad? [ ] BESTSELLERS [ ] NEW! GO! Search Search by keyword ____________________ Search close Follow TheDogsDoodahs find us on facebook Follow us on twitter View our YouTube Channel Secured Payment Secure online payments through SagePay _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Call us on 0845 900 2873 Or contact via email ThosenicePeople@TheDogsDoodahs.com Or write to us at TheDogsDoodahs.com, Unit C2, The Courtyard, Tewkesbury Business Park, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. GL20 8GD The boring bits * Contact us * About Us * Choosing the best personalised card and gift * Personalising a card and gift * Terms & Conditions - updated * Terms of use/Privacy Policy * Customer Reviews * Our Blog * Sitemap * Cookies * Go To Desktop Site Top top #TheJournal.ie » Feed alternate [moon.png] TheJournal.ie uses cookies. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Click here to find out more » * [logo.png] * Business ETC * The42 * The Daily Edge * ____________________ Search site (BUTTON) Search Dublin: 8 °C [07.png] Sunday 25 January, 2015 * Homepage * Irish * Politics * International * Opinion * Science * Living * Culture Trending: * king abdullah * day one RSS Tags * Marriage equality * Same-Sex Marriage See other tags Tags Tuesday 4 Feb, 2014 http://jrnl.ie/1299990 Scotland becomes latest country to legalise same-sex marriage This means that marriage equality will soon be in place across Great Britain. Feb 4 7:32 PM 7,993 Views 48 Comments Share478 Tweet46 Email12 Jaye (left) and Ruth Richard-Hill from Glasgow, who were Jaye (left) and Ruth Richard-Hill from Glasgow, who were "married" in a mock ceremony held as part of "final push" rally for equal marriage back in 2012. Image: Andrew Milligan/PA Archive/Press Association Image SCOTLAND HAS BECOME the latest country to legalise same-sex marriage, meaning that all of Great Britain will soon allow lesbian and gay couples equal access to marriage. The Scottish Parliament passed the Marriage and Civil Partnership Bill tonight by 105 votes to 18. Ministers were allowed to have a free vote on the issue. Under the bill, transgender people will be able to stay married when they obtain their Gender Recognition Certificate, instead of having to get divorced. Welcomed The news that the bill provides for marriage for lesbian and gay couples was welcomed by GLEN, the Gay & Lesbian Equality Network. It is expected that couples will be able to marry from the autumn of this year. The decision means that Scotland joins England and Wales in providing equal access to marriage for lesbian and gay couples across all of Great Britain. According to the BBC, Scotland’s two main churches are opposed to the bill – but no religious community will have to hold same-sex marriage ceremonies. “The vote of the Scottish Parliament is a further historic step in the journey to full equality for lesbian and gay people in the United Kingdom,” said Kieran Rose, GLEN chair. A very strong message of inclusion, of value and of equality has been sent to lesbian and gay people everywhere. Now, you will not be able to leave the shores of Ireland in any direction without reaching a country where civil marriage is available to lesbian and gay couples. In Ireland, a referendum on access to civil marriage for lesbian and gay couples will be held in 2015. “We firmly believe that the people of Ireland will continue their warm acceptance of lesbian and gay couples and their families and that a yes vote can be carried in a referendum that would provide access to civil marriage,” said Rose. Read: Scotland to press ahead with plans to legalise same-sex marriage> Already a fan? Connect below... [fb-connect.png] [picture?type=large] Get breaking news from TheJournal.ie via Facebook. Just click Like. Short URL http://jrnl.ie/12999 * Tweet this * Share on Facebook * Email this article * About the author: [Aoife-B-2-133x133.jpg] Aoife Barry @sweetoblivion26 aoife@thejournal.ie See more articles by Aoife Barry Contribute to this story: Leave a Comment Send a Photo / Video Send a Tip Send a Correction Read next: Embed this post To embed this post, copy the code below on your site 600px wide