§ Lord Northbourneasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they consider that civil partnerships between parents who wish to make a commitment to be responsible parents, but who are either unable or unwilling to marry, could help to increase the number of children enjoying the benefits of a stable family. [HL1389]
§ Baroness Scotland of AsthalSame-sex couples, some of whom bring up children together, currently have no opportunity to obtain a legal status for their relationship. The civil partnership proposals would give them this opportunity. The Government agree that stable families provide the best environment for children, and the associated rights and responsibilities of civil partnership would help same-sex couples to provide and care for their families.
The Government recognise that marriage is the best foundation for opposite-sex couples raising children and remains the choice of the majority of people in Britain. Opposite-sex couples who wish to obtain legal recognition for their relationships already have the choice of marriage. There are no plans to allow opposite-sex couples to register a civil partnership.