Queen Unwraps Gay Partner Law

(London) Details of the British government's plan to recognize same-sex couples emerged today in the Queen's speech from the throne, the glittering ceremony that opens a new session of Parliament.

The legislation will not legalize gay marriage, but it will provide for registered civil unions and give same-sex couples most of the rights and responsibilities that married couples now have. Even though it stops short of marriage British civil rights groups were enthusiastic with Stonewall calling it "hugely significant."

Called the Civil Partnership Registration Scheme, same-sex partners would pay a license fee and sign an official document in front of the registrar and two witnesses. There is no provision for a ceremony.

Under the legislation, domestic partners would gain visiting rights in hospitals, an ability to gain parental responsibility for each other's children, joint state pension benefits, and recognition under inheritance and intestacy rules, including the right to register their partner's death and continue tenancy of a property. It also would require partners to support each other financially, and it provides for a partner to claim compensation for fatal accidents or criminal injuries.

Conservatives, who have a long history of tying up gay rights legislation say Tory MPs will be allowed a free vote on the bill, virtually insuring its passage.

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