LONDON, July 17 (UPI) -- Same-sex marriage was legalized in England and Wales Wednesday, with the required Royal Assent from Queen Elizabeth.
The legislation, backed by Conservative, Labor and Liberal Democrats leaderships, was approved by peers and parliament members earlier in the week.
Advertisement
With the assent of the queen, a ceremonial but required formality, the proposal became law. Same-sex marriages are expected to take place by summer of next year, the BBC said.
The law does not compel religious organizations to perform same-sex marriages but churches can "opt in" if they choose.
Read More
- Gay marriage passes final parliamentary test in England, Wales
- Church of England: Bishops will not oppose same-sex marriage
- House of Lords rejects effort to kill gay marriage
- British P.M. Cameron gets an assist from Labor on gay marriage
- Biography cites Welby's past views on gays
- British minister in row about gay marriage