Thread: Germany legalises same-sex marriage

German politicians have voted to legalise same-sex marriage in a snap vote only days after Chancellor
Angela Merkel changed her mind to allow a free vote.

Key points:

• 393 voted in favour of legalising same-sex marriage, 226 against
• Bill grants same-sex couples full marital rights, including child adoption
• Chancellor Angela Merkel voted against the measure

The move brings Germany into line with many other European nations including France, Britain and Spain, and follows
Ms Merkel's surprise decision this week to allow her politicians to follow their own conscience rather than the party line on the issue.

Ms Merkel, who has long opposed same-sex marriage — citing concerns over the welfare of children — voted against the bill.

But she paved the way for the vote after saying on Monday that politicians could take up the issue as a "question of conscience".

The bill will grant gay and lesbian couples full marital rights, including child adoption.

Hundreds of gay activists, some with painted faces, celebrated outside the Bundestag lower house of parliament after the vote,
waving rainbow flags and placards that read: "Marriage for all — make love for all."
Source

Germany legalises same-sex marriage

Surprised TomCat wasn't all over this News
.