News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Civil-partnerships-campaigners-main_article_image.jpg
PA
UK News

Christian charity accuses government of 'undermining marriage'

Ministers said the move, announced at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, was an "important step forward for equality".

It follows a Supreme Court ruling that legislation on civil partnerships, which are currently open only to same-sex couples, was in breach of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Rebecca Steinfeld and Charles Keidan (pictured above), a couple from London had taken their case to the Supreme Court.

The Government said extending them to opposite-sex couples in England and Wales would provide greater security for those who wanted legal recognition for their relationship but did not want to get married.

In a statement Mrs May said: "This change in the law helps protect the interests of opposite-sex couples who want to commit, want to formalise their relationship but don't necessarily want to get married.

"As home secretary, I was proud to sponsor the legislation that created equal marriage.

"Now, by extending civil partnerships, we are making sure that all couples, be they same-sex or opposite-sex, are given the same choices in life."

Christian charity CARE has criticised the move.

In a statement, spokesperson James Mildred said: "Coming off the back of the Government's rush to implement no fault divorce, coupled with today's announcement it's a double whammy.

"There is a real narrative developing that this is a Government unwilling to back marriage.

"We recognise that for some civil partnerships reflect a genuine desire to commit. We think though that marriage is the gold standard of commitment.

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate