London Evening Standard comes out for equal marriage
Following comments made by the Prime Minister David Cameron where he reaffirmed his commitment to same sex civil marriage equality, the London Evening Standard has joined The Times and other newspapers in backing a change in the law.
In an editorial the paper wrote:-
The Prime Minister, in his interview with this paper today, insists that he is “clear about my views” on gay marriage and feels that “the time has come for change”. He has faced criticism for his stance from within his own party and the issue may yet prove politically tricky. But his instincts are right and reflect a huge shift in public attitudes on the issue. Civil partnerships, once seen by opponents as a radical move, are now an unremarkable fact of British life, both in London and the provinces. We believe that making matrimony available to gay couples is a natural progression from civil partnerships.
Mr Cameron acknowledges that a public consultation is still under way on the issue but he is right to be open about his views. When he says that “if marriage is good for heterosexuals, it is good for gay couples too”, he makes an argument that will appeal to many conservatives. Indeed the challenge for marriage today is not that gay couples want it but that so many couples are not tying the knot at all. He should stick to his guns.
The Times became the first daily newspaper to outline its vocal support to reforming marriage by allowing same sex couples to enjoy the same rights as opposite sex couples. In March it wrote: “It would enrich the institution of marriage, enhance social stability and expand the sum of human happiness. It is a cause that has the firm support of The Times.”
It continued: “Reforming the law would enrich the lives of same-sex couples who wish to marry in order to affirm by rite that they love and are loved in return. By that commitment, they will enrich the society and culture that their fellow citizens share.”
