SCOTLAND: Marriage Bill To Speed Up

Scotland's marriage equality bill is going to be fast-tracked through their parliament.

In an unusual move, MSPs will hold double sessions starting earlier in the day just to get through the weight of information from a broad spectrum of organisations and individuals who have been asked for their views on shaping the new laws. The Scottish Government faced accusations earlier this year that the equality legislation was slipping behind schedule and progress at Westminster for similar reform, but Ministers succeeded in publishing the Bill before the summer recess and have made clear that they expect the new law to be expedited as soon as possible. A Government source said: "After previous accusations about delays you can be sure that there will be no hold-ups on this."

The bill is expected to be ready for royal assent by March. England and Wales received royal assent on July 17th.