Your view: Scotland legalises gay marriage

SAME-sex marriages could take place in Scotland from autumn after a bill was passed at Holyrood.

MSPs voted 105 to 18 in favour of the legislation, which will give religious and belief bodies the right to “opt in”.

Cathcart MSP James Dornan told The Extra: “I’m proud to have played my small part in helping Scotland take a huge step forward in becoming a fairer and more equal nation.”

Eastwood MSP Ken Macintosh said: “This is a positive measure but I was pleased amendments are in place to ensure it could not be used against people of faith.”

Jackson Carlaw MSP, who supported the bill, commented: “I am content that the bill provides robust safeguards to protect celebrants.”

We asked southsiders: do you think MSPs were right to pass the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) bill?

Craig Brown (55), from Busby, said: “The law change doesn’t affect me in any way whatsoever. Gay people have every right to get married if that’s what they want to do.”

Newton Mearns woman Donna McLauchlan (40) commented: “Why shouldn’t gay people have the same rights as everybody else?”

William Brown (73), from Clarkston, thinks there are more important issues at hand, and told The Extra: “The government should concentrate on getting the economy back on track. They have their priorities all wrong.”

But for Giffnock’s Kris Brown (21), it’s a happy occasion, “as I have a few gay friends.

“Same-sex couples are just two people in love so it is no different to traditional marriages.”

What do you think? Share your thoughts by emailing Gregor (address above).