Brighton Kemptown MP Simon Kirby will be addressing an audience at the University of Sussex on the subject of equal marriage on Friday, January 25.
The prospect of a change in the law to allow same-sex marriage has attracted widespread media attention recently, with an Equal Marriage Bill expected to be introduced in the House of Commons in the near future.
Simon has been a vocal supporter of such a change in the law, and in his capacity as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister of State for Culture, Media and Sport has been closely involved in preparing the ground for possible legislation.
Simon said:
“I am looking forward to having the opportunity to outline my position on same-sex marriage, as well as addressing some of the wider issues raised by what I understand is a controversial topic.
I support equality because I believe the institution of marriage strengthens families and society and I think that the benefits of a legally defined marriage should not be excluded to anyone because of their sexuality.
At the same time, I accept that no religious institution should be forced to conduct a marriage if doing so conflicts with their beliefs. The Government has been very clear that the strongest legal safeguards will be in place to prevent that from happening.
I am extremely proud of everything this Government is doing to advance equality, and I will be doing my utmost to support the cause of equal marriage in Parliament the weeks and months ahead.”