To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities if she will hold a public consultation on Government proposals to change the definition of marriage.

On 15 March 2012, the Government published a consultation on how to enable all couples to have a civil marriage, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. A written ministerial statement was laid on the day of publication and copies made available in the House Library.

The consultation runs until 14 June 2012. The proposals only cover England and Wales and do not affect marriage and civil partnerships in Northern Ireland or Scotland.