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scottish-flag1A consultation by the Scottish Government on whether gay people should be allowed to marry through a civil or religious ceremony in Scotland is to close today.

As it stands, the Scottish Government tends towards the view that same-sex marriage should be introduced, but religious groups and their celebrants should not be obliged to solemnise marriages against their will. The consultation has now been opened up to allow residents of the United Kingdom to take part.

Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nicola Sturgeon, said:”The recent Scottish Social Attitudes survey found that more than 60 per cent of people in Scotland felt that same sex marriage couples should have the right to marry, compared to 19 per cent who disagreed. The Scottish Government is committed to equality and diversity for all and that is why we pledged to come forward with a consultation on same sex marriage and religious ceremonies for civil partnerships.

The consultation includes questions such as “Do you agree with the introduction of same-sex marriage, both religious and civil?”

Religious groups such as the Church of Scotland and the Catholic Church have responded to the consultation with opposition.

If the Scottish government decides to go ahead with legislation after the initial consultation, there will be a further consultation on a draft bill which could see a finalised bill introduced into Scottish parliament by 2013.

If you wish to take part in the consultation, you can find it here: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2011/09/05153328/0

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