main content Yes to same sex partnership ceremonies

Civil Partnership ceremonies can take place on Council premises, following a decision by Bromley Council’s Executive councillors tonight.

The Executive agreed a policy enabling same-sex couples to hold a celebration in addition to simply registering their partnership. The policy, which was debated following new legislation introducing civil partnership registration, takes effect in December 2005.

Council Leader Stephen Carr said: “I am pleased that a formal decision has now been reached on this matter. As councillors, we owe it to residents to provide clear information about Council policies; this decision does exactly that. Civil partnership ceremonies have been the subject of much debate and discussion, a process which has shown that, without doubt in Bromley, we listen to, value and respect the views of all our residents.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• The Civil Partnership Act takes effect from 5 December 2005. It is a statutory obligation for Councils to allow same sex couples to register their partnership. Local authorities may decide to accompany the registration with a ceremony.
• Councillors can request further scrutiny of the decision for 5 days after the minutes are circulated.
• Contrary to some reports, no decision was made banning same-sex partnership ceremonies in the borough.
• Couples who wish to hold their civil wedding or civil partnership ceremony in Bromley can choose to hold the ceremony in the Civic Centre at the Rose Room, Garden Room, Old Palace or the Council Chamber. Alternatively they may choose a ceremony at one of eight other licensed venues in Bromley with a member of the Council registration team in attendance.
• The Executive meeting follows votes on two motions at a Council meeting in September. The votes on each motion were 21 for, 21 against and 4 abstentions.