We the undersigned petition the Government to reject Lord Alli’s amendment to the Equality Bill 2009-10, changing the law on Civil Partnerships.

The amendment was passed through the House of Lords without proper time for debate or scrutiny. Baroness Thornton for the Government had said on 25 January 2010 that any change of the law on this matter can “be brought only after proper and careful consideration of these issues.” This has not taken place.

The amendment has the potential to remove religious liberty in the future by compelling ministers to conduct Civil Partnerships and a change in the law would further undermine the distinct nature of Marriage as between a man and a woman.

We the undersigned, therefore, petition the Government to:

Reject Lord Alli’s amendment to the Equality Bill 2009-10