Legal gay partnerships before Christmas
New legislation that will enable gay couples to register their relationship as a civil partnership will come into force before Christmas this year.
The Civil Partnerships Act will come into force on December 5, meaning that the first couples will be able to formally register their partnerships on 21 December, after the standard 15 day waiting period.
Once a partnership is legally registered, couples will gain increased employment and pension rights, access to life assurance provisions as well as recognition for immigration and nationality purposes.
Any dissolution of the partnership would have to be made by a court.
Equality Minister Jacqui Smith said: “This legislation is going to make a real difference to these couples and it demonstrates the Government’s commitment to equality and social justice.
“I hope this act will help create a more equal society. It opens the way to respect, recognition and justice for those who have been denied it for too long.”
Over the next year the Government will offer guidance and training to employers on implementing the changes.
Gay rights group Stonewall enthusiastically welcomed the announcement.
Chief executive Ben Summerskill said: “We’re delighted. We’ve received countless enquiries from people across Britain wanting to know when they will be able to register. At last, lesbian and gay couples can begin to plan their future lives together.”
He added: “We’re looking forward to lots of pre-Christmas celebrations!”
