Southwark Council set to debate same-sex marriage

London borough of Southwark Councillors will debate Same-sex Marriage at Wednesday's meeting of the Council Assembly. Southwark are the first council in England to hold such a debate. The motion is being tabled with cross-party support and will be proposed by Liberal Democrat Cllr David Noakes and seconded by Labour Cllr Abdul Mohamed.

The two parties have agreed to hold an un-whipped vote on the motion which will formally declare the Council's support for the consultation to allow same-sex couples to have a civil marriage and any subsequent introduction of legislation to make it a reality.

Lib Dem Cllr David Noakes said: "The Government's proposal to allow couples of the same sex to enter into a civil marriage is an important step forward for the rights of gay and lesbian couples in Southwark and across the country."

"Here in Southwark, we have a proud history of supporting moves for equality and I am proud that Liberal Democrats and Labour Councillors have come together to table this motion and I hope that all councillors will feel able to support it on Wednesday night."