Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, has reiterated his intention to vote against the re-definition of marriage bill which has been published by the Scottish Government today.

Dave said: “I see no need to re-define marriage. The reason for this is that I do not believe this is an equality issue, as Civil Partnerships provide nearly all of the legal rights and obligations of Marriage and can easily be adjusted to make the two forms of union equal in every way, including allowing faith bodies which wish to carry out and bless Civil Partnerships the right to do so.

“I do believe that Marriage is different to Civil Partnership which I support. Essentially, it is all about the meaning of a word, a word that means the union of one man and one woman in a committed loving relationship for the procreation of children. On the other hand, Civil Partnership means the union of two people of the same sex in a committed loving relationship. These definitions are as equal as it is possible to be but highlight the difference between the two types of union.

“Should the bill be passed it is essential that real safeguards are built in to it, not only for Celebrants but also for others who may be caught out by unintended consequences. There is a real danger that Celebrants, Teachers, Registrars and others will fall foul of the Equality Act 2010, even if it is amended, unless there is an opt-out on conscience grounds. I think this is eminently reasonable as it would recognise the role faith plays in the life of an individual.”