Merkel paves way for gay marriage

ANGELA MERKEL has paved the way for gay marriage to be legalised in Germany after she called for a free vote in parliament on the issue.

It represents a significant about-turn for the German chancellor, who has previously opposed gay marriage, citing concerns for children. A vote could now be held as soon as next week and a majority of MPS are believed to be in favour.

Mrs Merkel said she changed her mind after meeting a lesbian couple in her constituency who had adopted eight children. Sceptics suggested, however, that the timing may be linked to the coming German elections in September. Mrs Merkel’s chief rivals, the Social Democrats (SPD), have pledged to legalise gay marriage and opinion polls show that more than 80 per cent of Germans are in favour.

Martin Schulz, the SPD leader, said: “The change of heart should be acted on this week.”