Same-sex couples in the UK can tie the knot

Same-sex weddings in England and Wales will take place from March 2014, equalities minister Maria Miller has announced yesterday.

The date for the change in legislation to come into effect, which is March 29, is a few months earlier than expected at the time of the passage of the Marriage Act in July.

In fact, it was thought that same-sex couples would have to wait until next summer to tie the knot .

“This is just another step in the evolution of marriage and I know many couples up and down the country will be hugely excited they can now plan their big day,” Ms Miller said.

Both deputy prime minister Nick Clegg and Labour leader Ed Miliband hailed the announcement by equalities minister.

Ms Miller said she is currently working hard to ensure couples wishing to convert civil partnerships into marriages and married people wanting to change their legal gender while married, can do so before the end of 2014.

Westminster Council alone has already received two same-sex wedding bookings and 15 enquiries after the announcement.

Those couples who want to be among the first married will need to give formal notice of their will by March 13.