Don't rush same-sex marriage legislation, says Church

 PA

The Church of England has urged the Government not to rush bringing forward legislation on same-sex marriage.

It wants the Government to hold off until draft clauses on protections for churches and other faith groups are "right".

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Second Church Estates Commissioner, Sir Tony Baldry MP asked the Government to wait until Church officials and other faith representatives "have agreed that those clauses will do what they say on the tin".

Culture Secretary Maria Miller last month promised a quadruple lock to ensure that churches and clergy are not forced to marry same-sex couples or host the ceremonies on their premises.

She also gave assurances that the Equality Act 2010 would be amended so that discrimination claims cannot be brought against religious organisations or ministers who refuse to conduct same-sex marriages.

Mr Baldry told MPs: "Whatever the views of the Church of England and other faith groups might be on same-sex marriage ... it is in everyone's interests that we get the quadruple lock provision properly sorted, and that it will not help the Government's handling of the measure if there is any confusion about these provisions on Second Reading."

News
Pastor considers legal action after arrest over comments on Islam and transgender ideology
Pastor considers legal action after arrest over comments on Islam and transgender ideology

The Alliance Defending Freedom warns of more such arrests if the government introduces its much-maligned definition of 'anti-Muslim hatred'.

Why do Christians observe Shrove Tuesday?
Why do Christians observe Shrove Tuesday?

17 February 2026 is Shrove Tuesday, the traditional day for eating pancakes before the start of Lent. This is the story …

CoE announces £400,000 to get young people into choirs
CoE announces £400,000 to get young people into choirs

Most CoE choirs currently have no children involved.

Christian social worker who lost job offer over marriage and sexuality beliefs wins appeal
Christian social worker who lost job offer over marriage and sexuality beliefs wins appeal

A Christian social worker whose offer of a job was withdrawn over public comments he made about marriage and sexuality has won his case at appeal.