News Bulletin 13 December 2013

Fiona McLeod MSP, a supporter of the Scottish Government’s current plans to redefine marriage, has refused to meet a local resident to discuss same-sex marriage, despite inviting constituents to speak with her about ‘any’ issue — Culture Secretary Maria Miller has announced that same-sex marriages in England and Wales can now take place from 29th of March next year — much earlier than the summer timescale originally planned. She said the development is; “just another step in the evolution of marriage” — The Australian High Court has overturned gay marriage legislation, finding it to be inconsistent with federal law — There were two TV debates featuring the marriage issue this week. One saw Free Church of Scotland minister, Revd David Robertson, and homosexual rights campaigner Peter Tatchell facing each other on Christian channel, Revelation TV, – and on Piers Morgan’s Interview show, American evangelist and Pastor Rick Warren was also quizzed over his views on marriage — A Private Member’s Bill, which calls for online adult content filters to be a legal obligation, has been debated in parliament — Retired surgeon, Professor Donald MacDonald, has spoken out against plans to legalise assisted suicide in Scotland — And churches in Scotland are looking to recruit people to become ‘Bed and Breakfast hosts’ for athletes’ families, coaches, and volunteers during next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.