§ The Deputy Minister for Women and Equality (Jacqui Smith)The consultation paper"Civil Partnership: a framework for the legal recognition of same-sex couples" is being published today. It sets out proposals for the creation of a new legal status for those same-sex couples wishing to have their relationships recognised in law. Under the proposed scheme, registered partners would gain a comprehensive range of rights and responsibilities that would reflect the roles they play in each other's lives. The public is invited to comment on the Government's proposals by 30 September 2003.
Copies have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.
Copies of the consultation paper are also available on the website of the Women and Equality Unit http:// www. womenandequalityunit.gov.uk/.