Members of the House of Lords have been implored to “defend our freedoms” and “transcend party politics” by rejecting David Cameron’s same-sex marriage Bill.
It comes as over 50 religious leaders, including representatives from the Christian, Muslim and Sikh communities, called on the Government to “pause” its push to redefine marriage.
The House of Lords started debating the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill today, with a vote set to take place tomorrow.
Intolerance?
In a letter to The Sunday Telegraph, Robert Woollard, who represents grassroots Conservatives, said that long-serving party members “believe that the family lies at the heart of Conservative values”.
But, he continued: “The golden inheritance of every previous generation, that has been lovingly handed down to us, is now being smashed on the anvil of ‘equality and fairness’. Is this the ‘new intolerance’?
“We sincerely hope that the Lords will take a more objective view of this misguided legislation, transcend party politics, uphold our constitutional processes, defend our freedoms – and reject the Bill.”
Flaws
On Saturday a letter signed by 53 religious leaders was published in The Daily Telegraph which warned against the “serious flaws” within the legislation.
It said that the leaders would “continue to resist this proposed legislation and to highlight its injustice and unfairness”.
The letter cautioned that the Bill “would radically undermine the nature and place of the family in our society”.
Leaders who signed the letter include the Church of England Bishop of Bristol – Michael Hill, Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh – a Sikh community leader, and John Beard – a prominent Buddhist.
Oppose
They warned: “We strongly oppose the Same Sex Marriage Bill which if enacted will affect all those of faith and those with none.
“We are disappointed that the Government has failed to engage in meaningful debate with the many different faith communities in Britain.”
However Viscount Astor, a hereditary Peer in the House of Lords, said for Peers to vote against the Bill now “would be quite wrong”.