The French government has re-submitted to parliament an amended version of a controversial law intended to give unmarried couples, both heterosexual and homosexual, legal recognition.

The draft bill known as the Civil Solidarity Act was thrown out of parliament during a first reading last month because of conservative opposition.

The new law has sparked a vehement debate in France, with church leaders voicing concern that it would undermine family values and encourage homosexual marriage.

Conservative politicians have again tabled numerous amendments to try to stop its progress.

The law includes reforms that give unmarried couples the right to file joint tax returns and gain inheritance benefits.