Lib Dem MSP to have first civil partnership

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a pink background.

A Liberal Democrat will be the first MSP to have a civil partnership after announcing her plans for a ceremony today.

According to sources Margaret Smith, 45, MSP for Edinburgh West, will register her relationship with Suzanne Main next month.

The couple said in a statement: “The ceremony will take place in Edinburgh in the presence of family and friends.”

Sources close to the couple told the BBC they were both “very happy to make the announcement and delighted to be able to make the commitment to each other”.

Mother-of-two Ms Smith split from her husband in 2000 and later announced she had a female partner.

She said at the time: “I am happy to confirm that I am in a relationship with a female partner.”

“My family are aware of the relationship and have been very supportive. My partner is not in the public eye.”