Same-Sex Marriage Bill Clears UK House of Lords

Britain's same-sex marriage bill has cleared its last major hurdle, passing through the House of Lords and prompting celebrations from campaigners outside Parliament.

The bill will enable gay couples to get married in both civil and religious ceremonies in England and Wales, though the Church of England, which is divided on the issue, is barred from offering same-sex ceremonies.

The bill is set to become law by the end of the week, with the first weddings expected in 2014.

Government minister Lady Stowell said the bill "puts right something which is wrong" and had been improved by detailed scrutiny in the Upper House.

"I can't claim to be a gay rights campaigner, but I am a firm believer in justice and fairness," she said, according to the BBC

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