Labour leader Ed Miliband has decided to give his party a free vote on the Government’s same-sex ‘marriage’ bill.
A number of shadow ministers had expressed their disapproval of a whipped vote on the issue.
Resignation
Mr Miliband claimed that all members of the shadow cabinet back the Government’s “equal civil marriage” bill, expected to be brought before Parliament in January next year.
But two shadow ministers have threatened to resign should the labour leader force MPs to vote in favour of the Bill.
A number of others have said they disagree with a whipped vote on the issue over concerns that the new legislation will restrict religious liberties.
Labour sources have revealed that the shadow cabinet is divided over its views on the proposed redefinition of marriage.
Opposition
Nearly 60 MPs and peers – including Labour members – signed an open letter on the weekend opposing the Government’s proposals.
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