Fairness 'at the heart' of Government's marriage proposal
– Maria Miller, outlining the same-sex marriage proposalsThe Government has to balance the importance of treating all couples equally and fairly with respect for religious organisation's rights for their own beliefs.
We need to be fair to same sex couples. The state should not be banning them from such a great institution.
Equally, we need to be fair to people of faith and (so) religious protections that I will set out will ensure that fairness is at the heart of our proposals.
CofE exempt from Government's same-sex marriage plans
Same-sex marriage will remain illegal in the Church of England, as the Government unveiled its plans to extend marriage to gay couples.
David Cameron backs gay church weddings
David Cameron is facing a backlash from Tory MPs and religious groups over allowing gay weddings in churches.