Hume: Equal Marriage vote is historic step forward

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Jim Hume has welcomed today's vote on the Marriage and Civil Partnerships (Scotland) Bill as a historic step forward for equality in Scotland.

Mr Hume was speaking after the Scottish Parliament voted in favour of equal marriage after the stage 1 debate on the new legislation, by 98 votes to 15.

He said: "Today's vote was a big step forward for equality and a move towards the fairer Scotland that we all want to see.

"The principle we are debating here is very simple. Same-sex partners do not love one another any less than other couples. Their relationships deserve the same recognition and protections as any other.

"The word 'historic' is often thrown around far too easily in politics, but this was a genuinely historic day for Scotland. Today's vote was not just on a bill. It was on the principle of a fundamental reform that will demonstrate clearly that our Scottish society values everyone - no matter their sexuality."