Same-sex marriages begin in March

Equalities Minister Maria Miller has announced that same-sex marriages can take place from March 29.

The date comes far sooner than expected as it was believed that marriages would not be available until  the summer.

It is thought that the date has been brought forward as the Government made the necessary arrangements before schedule.

Same sex couples wishing to marry on 29 March must submit a formal notice of this intention by 19 March.

Maria Miller said: “Marriage is one of our most important institutions, and from 29 March 2014 it will be open to everyone, irrespective of whether they fall in love with someone of the same sex or opposite sex.

“This is just another step in the evolution of marriage and I know that many couples up and down the country will be hugely excited that they can now plan for their big day and demonstrate their love and commitment to each other by getting married.”

LGBT charites who campaigned for the date to be brought forward have welcomed the news..

Ben Summerskill, Chief Executive of Stonewall said: “We’re delighted that moments ago the Government in Westminster announced the timetable for the implementation of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act in England and Wales.

“Same-sex couples will now be able to get married in a registry or approved religious premises from 29 March 2014. We’re particularly pleased that, following pressure from Stonewall, ministers have been persuaded to bring forward the commencement date from summer 2014 as they’d originally proposed.

“There will be a slight further delay for people who want to ‘convert’ from civil partnerships to marriage.

“This historic step will mean that, for the first time, every gay person in England and Wales will finally enjoy exactly the same rights as their heterosexual friends and family.”