British Prime Minister Lauds Civil Partnership Act

"Across the country this week, hundreds of couples will be celebrating a major milestone in their lives. They will be followed by thousands more in the coming months as same sex couples take the opportunity to gain legal recognition and protection for their relationship. The Civil Partnership Act may not be the biggest change that this Government has brought in. But, by correcting an obvious injustice, removing fear and providing security, it will change the lives of tens of thousands of people for the better. It is also, importantly, another step towards a fairer, more tolerant country. This landmark measure ends the situation where same-sex relationships were invisible in the eyes of the law, denied any recognition of their commitment. [It] helps highlight again [our] determination to create a more modern, open, fairer and democratic country. There is, of course, no room for complacency. There is still too much injustice, discrimination and unfairness. But... we can also see that, as a society and country, we continue to move in the right direction. That's a good enough reason for us all to celebrate." British Prime Minister Tony Blair, December 21, 2005