The Archbishops Speak

Better late than never, here is a statement from our two London Archbishops

Statement on the government response to the same sex marriage consultation

Bishops Conference of England and Wales 

'The meaning of marriage matters. It derives that meaning from its function as the foundation of the family. The union of one man and one woman for love and mutual support and open to procreation has over the centuries formed a stable unit we call the family.
Marriage is the enduring public recognition of this commitment and has been rightly recognised as unique and worthy of legal protection. The government has chosen to ignore the views of over 600,000 people who signed a petition calling for the current definition of marriage to stay, and we are told legislation to change the definition of marriage will now come to Parliament. We strongly oppose such a Bill.
Furthermore, the process by which this has happened can only be described as shambolic. There was no electoral mandate in any manifesto; no mention in the Queen’s speech; no serious or thorough consultation through a Green or White paper, and a constant shifting of policy before even the government response to the consultation was published today.
We urge everyone who cares about upholding the meaning of marriage in civil law to make their views known to their MPs clearly, calmly and forcefully, and without impugning the motives of others. We urge all parties to ensure their Members have a free vote. It is not too late to stop this Bill.'

Our MPs are disinclined to listen to arguements made "clearly, calmly and forcefully, and without impugning the motives of others". Their Graces are right the consultation  has been shambolic, our Prime Minister and MPs have ignored a petition over 600,000 signatures, so why would they bother with another round of letters?

I am glad to see Their Graces are so optimistic I look forward to seeing over the next few days the unveiling of their plans on just how the Bill can be stopped.