Obama says same-sex couples should be able to marry

President Barack Obama has said he believes same-sex couples should be allowed to get married, Reuters news agency reports.

In an interview with ABC's Robin Roberts, Mr Obama said:

"It is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married.

Obama's comments mark a shift in his evolving position on the issue that is likely to please his political base and upset conservatives.

It also comes days after Vice President Joe Biden said he was comfortable with gay marriage.

Last updated Fri 18 Jul 2014