Liberal Judaism, 9th November 2011

Liberal Judaism has praised the Government's decision to allow same-sex couples to hold civil partnership ceremonies in synagogue - but criticised the proposed legislation for not going far enough.

Despite pressure from Liberal Judaism and other like-minded religions - including the Unitarians and Quakers - full same-sex marriages still cannot be held in places of worship.

Liberal Judaism's chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich said: "This is a step in the right direction, but there is no reason not to provide full equal rights in this field. Indeed it is a moral imperative.

"This is a simple matter of justice - and we will continue the fight for equal marriage."

Civil partnerships were introduced in 2005 but were kept entirely secular. While Liberal Judaism has long offered synagogue blessings for same-sex couples, previously these had to be held separately to the legal registration of a civil partnership.

The Government’s equalities minister Lynne Featherstone said: "We are advancing equality for LGB (lesbian, gay and bisexual) people and ensuring freedom of religion for people of all faiths.

"No religious group will be forced to host a civil partnership registration, but for those who wish to do so this is an important step forward."