Same-Sex marriage becomes law in England and Wales

As of yesterday, same-sex couples will be able to get married in England and Wales after new measures became law.

This movement has been welcomed by the more accepting population of England and Wales, and perhaps opened the eyes of those less supportive.

The Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrat leaderships all backed the proposals, which were finally approved by MPs and peers earlier this week.

Maria Miller, the equalities minister, said marriage would remain the “bedrock” of society but would now be open to same-sex couples as well as heterosexuals.

Meanwhile, an anonymous source stated, “I wish to look upon this as the equivalent of when black people were treated as second-class citizens. They were abused until eventually welcomed. And although racism is still sadly present in some, it is far better than in the past. I have high hopes the same will apply for homosexuality.”

It is expected that the first gay and lesbian wedding ceremonies will take place by summer next year.

Under the terms of the the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill, religious organisations will have to "opt in" to offering weddings, with the Church of England and Church in Wales being banned in law from doing so.

Commons Speaker John Bercow announced the bill had received Royal Assent - the formal approval of the sovereign required for all legislation - on Wednesday. The news was greeted with cheers in the Commons chamber.

Paul Parker, recording clerk for Quakers in Britain, said: "It's wonderful to see same-sex marriage achieve legal recognition. Quakers see the light of God in everyone so we respect the inherent worth of each individual and each loving relationship."