Why I abstained on gay marriage vote, MP Graham Evans explains (From Runcorn and Widnes World)
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Why I didn't back gay marriage, MP Graham Evans explains
11:55am Thursday 7th February 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan
MP Graham Evans
WEAVER Vale Conservative MP Graham Evans today explained why he did not vote in the key Commons election on gay marriage.
He said: “As it is clear from the many views expressed, this has been a very contentious issue and I listened carefully to those who contacted me.
“As an MP, I am compelled to represent the views of not just myself, but the views of my constituents. I have received hundreds of letters from constituents who oppose this Bill due to their concerns about their civil liberties and the right to practice their religious beliefs and only a handful of letters supporting the Bill.
“I reached the conclusion that voting for the second reading of the Bill would go against the majority view of those who felt strongly enough to contact me. I therefore chose to abstain from voting on this Bill.”
Halton’s Labour MP Derek Twigg voted against the Marriage Same Sex Couples Bill on Tuesday evening with 21 other Labour members, 4 Liberal Democrats and 134 Tories.
There were 67 abstentions across the main parties.
MPs were given a free vote.
Mr Evans added: “I would like to reassure concerned constituents that there is absolutely no question of churches or of any other religious institution being forced to host ceremonies for same-sex marriage, or indeed civil partnerships.
“The Prime Minister believes, and the majority of Parliament has demonstrated it believes, that society is made stronger by people’s commitment to one another, irrespective of gender.”
traceyingram93@hotmail.com says...
1:11pm Sat 9 Feb 13
As an MP, I am compelled to represent the views of not just myself, but the views of my constituents. I have received hundreds of letters from constituents who oppose this Bill due to their concerns about their civil liberties and the right to practice their religious beliefs and only a handful of letters supporting the Bill.
So why didnt you vote ?
I believe this bill as it stands is flawed .. whats the rush ? surely there are more important Bills to discuss or is your leader looking for more votes .. Why cant this be a Yes No Vote to everyone entitled to vote?
Its not a 'done deal' yet ... If it goes thru does this mean that Child Molestors Rapists Murderers etc any Prisoner can get married and share cell ?
How can there ever be a divorce ?
It is my opinion that those MP's who voted against this 2nd Bill are very much unlike yourself ..by the very fact you chose not to vote either way speaks volumes .. If this goes to a 3rd Vote Mr Evans will you vote against or for ?