Commons to debate Ulster equality bill

Labour MP brings forward same-sex marriage motion

EQUAL marriage campaigners have welcomed a Labour MP’S Bill on its introduction to Northern Ireland.

Conor Mcginn, from Co Armagh, is bringing forward the 10-minute rule motion with the support of his party.

He said yesterday: “If my constituents of the same sex who love their partner can get married in St Helens, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Dublin then they should be able to do so in Belfast.

“My preference is for a fullyfunctioning Executive and Assembly to deal with this issue but LGBT couples in Northern Ireland should not be made to wait a moment longer for basic rights.”

The Bill will be heard at the House of Commons on March 28.

Asked what the DUP might think on the Daily Politics Show, Mr Mcginn said: “The DUP can’t have it both ways. They have called for direct rule and so they can’t really complain if Westminster acts decisively on this issue.”

The Northern Ireland Assembly voted in favour of same-sex marriage in 2015, but it was blocked with a DUP petition of concern.

While a 2016 Ipsos MORI poll showed 70% support for marriage equality among the Northern Ireland public.

The Love Equality campaign says it is working closely with St Helens North representative Mr Mcginn and will help rally parliamentary support for the Bill.

Campaigner Patrick Corrigan added: “We will be working to build support from MPS in the UK and are confident of a convincing majority in favour.

“We now look to Parliament to uphold the rights of people in Northern Ireland and to respond to overwhelming public support here.” Secretary of State Karen Bradley said on Tuesday she will allow a free vote if the issue comes before Parliament.

She added: “In accordance with the Belfast Agreement, this is a devolved matter which should be addressed in the NI Assembly.”

VOTE Equality campaign