Gay people 'should have the dignity others take for granted'

Liberal Democrat Baroness Barker has told peers she had had a female partner for many years and strongly welcomed the Bill.

Lady Barker said the legislation reflected "the wishes of people who don't today just want to tolerate the views of lesbians and gay men but want to celebrate and support them as people in their own right."

She said: "I look forward to joining with people on all sides of this House to ensure that gay people and their families are afforded the dignity and respect that others take for granted and that families, faiths and communities can grow stronger together as a result."