---

Civil Partnership (Judicial Pensions and Church Pensions, etc.) Order 2005

My Lords, I am most grateful to the noble Lords, Lord Kingsland and Lord Addington, and the right reverend Prelate the Bishop of St Albans for their support, even though it was slightly qualified on the right reverend Prelate’s behalf. To make a personal remark, it saddens me to think that there is continuing debate within the Church on this matter. I have nothing more to say except to thank noble Lords who have taken part in what we certainly cannot describe as a debate. I would like to put on record that the Civil Partnership Act will come into force in a few days’ time—on Monday, I think. I am sure that, in years to come, people will look back and see it as a landmark piece of legislation that gives same-sex couples for the first time the right to legal recognition of their relationships. This legislation will make a genuine difference to people’s lives and it demonstrates the Government’s commitment to equality and social justice. On Question, Motion agreed to.