EUSA passes equal marriage proposal

The Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) announced at its last AGM its support for an Equal Marriage proposal In Scotland. The vote passed  on 25 October with unanimity.

The proposal has been raised at a time when the Scottish Government is carrying out a consultation on same-sex marriage. The aim of the proposal is to ensure support for NUS Scotland’s LGBT campaign for equal marriage.

In a statment EUSA express that it supports the passing of policy: “Marriage and civil partnership should be open to all couples, regardless of gender or sexual orientation."  

EUSA President Matt McPherson has further stated that: “It is astonishing that in this day and age not all UK citizens have equal rights.” However Mr McPherson went on to express his confidence in the move, saying: “I am very optimistic that the end result of our campaigning, in partnership with the NUS, will result in equal marriage for all in Scotland in the next few years”.

With regard to religious groups EUSA stresses its stance that “no religious organisation should be forced to perform same-sex marriage ceremonies, but that those who wish to should be free to do so.” The Catholic Church of Scotland has expressed its opposition to the move and has pledged to consult with the Scottish government in an attempt to block the move with “strenuous opposition”.

Vice-President of Societies and Activities Emma Meehan spoke of the wide base of support the move has. In a press release Ms Meehan claims that: “I am delighted that students across Scotland are uniting to campaign for equality across Scotland, and am confident that Scotland can lead the way in supporting equal marriage for all”.

In a statement on their website NUS Scotland announces it has been given permission to consult with the Scottish government on equal marriage. EUSA will now work in coalition with other student bodies and national government figures to try and pass the motion into law.