British parliament votes on same-sex marriage for first time

British parliament votes on same-sex marriage ...

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For the first time in the history of the British parliaments, MPs are set to vote on plans to allow same-sex marriages in England and Wales.

The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill, which was introduced in December, is scheduled to be debated in Westminister, the leader of the Commons Andrew Lansley has announced.

The bill will allow same-sex marriage and let religious organisations, which want to perform such ceremonies, offer them.

The plans have divided the Conservative Party and threaten to hurt Prime Minister David Cameron's position. In an effort to minimise the damage, the PM promised MPs will get a free vote.

Labour and the Lib Dems back the proposals to legalise same-sex marriage.

The Church of England and Roman Catholics have voiced opposition to the plans and are expected to oppose the bill, even with its caveats. But some religious groups, including Quakers, Unitarians and Liberal Jews, are in favour.