Party likely to support gay marriage pledge

Liberal Democrat activists are today poised to back gay marriage as a manifesto pledge for the next general election. It would make them the first mainstream British political party to adopt equal rights for homosexuals as an election promise.

Liberal Democrat activists are today poised to back gay marriage as a manifesto pledge for the next general election. It would make them the first mainstream British political party to adopt equal rights for homosexuals as an election promise.

Charles Kennedy, the party leader, regards the proposal as a crucial part of his campaign to achieve equality. Under the policy, homosexual and heterosexual couples will be treated the same under the law overinheritance, adoption and property rights.

Susan Kramer, the former London mayoral candidate, will move the motion that calls for the establishment of civil partnerships for gay and straight couples. "Any two unrelated people over 16 should be allowed to enter into a civil partnership to organise their common life," Ms Kramer said.

The motion also calls for civil registration in England and Wales on the "legal effects and duties of marriage", including immigration and tax.

* Sainsbury is likely to grant gay couples the same pension rights and staff discounts they give married employees. The chain is also considering giving gay couples paternity rights.