Graham Watson MEP

Since August 2007, French couples in a PAC (Pacte Civil de Solidarité) have enjoyed the same rights in relation to tax and inheritance laws which had previously only applied to married couples. However, due to a legal anomaly, British civil partnerships were not recognised under French law, meaning couples living in France were liable for a 60% inheritance tax and were treated like any other unmarried couple.

Lib Dem MEP Graham Watson pointed out the ridiculous situation that many people faced:
"Up until now, the practicality of French law has meant that British civil partners living in France would have to dissolve their partnership and enter into a PAC in order to secure the same rights as French couples. This violated the idea of European citizenship and equality, and something had to be done."

Watson was made aware of this absurdity by two former constituents, and asked the European Commission to press the French Government on the issue.

Ministers have now announced that British civil partnerships are recognised as equal to PACs, and reimbursements will be made to individuals who have made undue tax payments since August 2007.

Mr Watson added:
"Although it has taken far too long to get to this position, I am pleased that same-sex British couples can now rest assured that they have the same rights as a French couple.

"We can now focus our attention on tackling discrimination and, in some cases, downright homophobia in other areas of Europe. The EU has an important role to play in securing equality and we must push for tolerance in all member states.

"I am just disappointed that Tory MEPs have done the opposite, and used their position to support Section 28-type laws in places like Lithuania and Poland. The party have obviously not changed as much as the Conservative leader would have us believe."

For more information about the Liberal Democrats view:
www.brighton-hovelibdems.org.uk