How much kudos does Blair deserve over gay marriage?

[Kipling]

I think that in years to come it will be seen as one of the best things to come out of this government. Does Blair deserve to be applauded for it?

[D-Notice]

1. It's not really

"gay marriage" - it's a "civil partnership", whatever that means.

[tjwmason]

2. The difference is entirely semantic.

It's a very British way of doing it - cut it into two smaller parts which are easier for the public to swallow.

Give it 5 years, then it will be very easy for politicians to say "hey look, these folk have been living in Civil Partnerships for 5 years, enjoying all of the legal benefits of marriage - why not change the name and make it full-blown gay marriage".

There are only two differences between a C.P. and a civil marriage - first the name, and secondly the manner of formation (the partnership involves signing the relevant forms, marriage requires the pronouncement of the vows).

[flashg]

3. More like cutting down gay rights so its easier for homophobes to swallow

Those opposed to gay rights and equal marriage aren't in and of themselves "the public" are they? It sends a powerful message that gays deserve a second class and their relationships aren't worthy of the word marriage. Canada found the only way to avoid creating a second class was full marriage; PM Paul Martin explained "(We are) a nation of equality...We will send a statement to the world that in Canada gays and lesbians will not be considered second-class citizens." Civil partnerships or unions are also very American, where Blair seems to look for his direction on more than just this subject. Yes this will solve some day to day problems for many gay people and their families but it does little or nothing to further equality in the UK.

[Kipling]

4. At least they get identical rights.

That's something. And yes, I do realise Blair got the inspiration from across the Atlantic once again.