MSP rings marriage changes

Married couples have more rights

A Green MSP is calling for a change in the law which would give people in committed relationships the same rights as married couples.

Robin Harper wants the Scottish Executive to consider establishing a register of civil partnerships.

And he wants those on such a list to enjoy the same rights as married couples when it comes to pension rights, bereavement damages and inheritance.

Mr Harper is lodging a motion in the Scottish Parliament calling on the executive to bring forward legislation.

My proposal is in no way an attempt to undermine marriage

Ross Harper

Similar moves are also being brought forward in the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

The Lothians MSP said: "There are a large number of people in Scotland who are in committed partnerships, but may not choose to or are unable to marry.

"Unfortunately such relationships receive either limited or no legal recognition at present and this can lead to problems in a number of areas, particularly in relation to inheritance and pension rights and bereavement damages."

Robin Harper: "Not undermining marriage"

He said he hoped to bring attention to the need for a civil mechanism which would allow people to register their commitment to each other.

Mr Harper also called for the law to be changed to provide full legal recognition for couples who choose to register in such a way.

But he stressed: "My proposal is in no way an attempt to undermine marriage.

"I believe marriage has a key role to play within Scottish society.

"We must be aware, however, that there are people who choose, or are unable to marry, and I think it is only fair that in a modern Scottish society that if they are in a partnership they should have equal rights in the eyes of law."