Mike Wood MP defends vote against gay marriage

Batley and Spen MP Mike Wood has defended his decision to vote against the gay marriage bill.

Mr Wood was one of 22 Labour MPs who voted against the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill following a lengthy debate in the House of Commons on Tuesday.

Despite numerous Tory MPs speaking out against gay marriage, the Coalition’s bill passed its second reading by 400 votes to 175, with a majority of 225.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The bill has now been agreed in principle and will undergo detailed parliamentary scrutiny.

Mr Wood said he couldn’t support the bill and that it could lead to more inequality.

He said: “I favour measures to lessen inequality however I couldn’t vote for this ill thought through measure produced by the Prime Minister like a rabbit out of a hat. “Devised of course for reasons having nothing whatever to do with strengthening gay rights.

“On Tuesday we saw further evidence that the PM is intent on fast tracking this legislation through parliament with insufficient time for debate and consideration.

“I fear that the law of unintended consequences will mean that this is a step backwards for those who wish to see a fairer and more equal society and not the reverse.”