Leading article: A bright day for equality

Published: 05 December 2005

This is an historic moment. From today, homosexual couples across Britain will be able to inform their local register offices of their intention to enter into a civil partnership. The first registration ceremonies will follow in just over two weeks. Committed gay and lesbian couples will henceforth have access to the same legal rights as married couples with respect to inheritance tax, pensions and a range of other matters. For the first time, gay relationships will be recognised in the eyes of the law.

When this law was passed last November, some complained that it did not place civil partnerships on an equal status with heterosexual marriage. They detected a lingering prejudice among lawmakers. Others objected to the law on the grounds that civil partnerships will not be open to heterosexual couples. They questioned why two siblings living together should not also have these legal privileges. These remain arguments with some substance. But we should be wary of making the best the enemy of the good. This law is not perfect, but it is a significant improvement on the situation that existed before. The number of applications coming in to register offices suggests that most gay couples are happy with the legislation. It is also worth remembering that similar laws already exist in nine European countries and are widely accepted there.

Article Length: 369 words (approx.)