Same-sex partners set to gain legal rights

Legal recognition for same-sex couples came a step closer with the publication last month of the government's proposals for civil partnership.

Under a new scheme for England and Wales, registered partners would gain legal rights including:

* joint state pension benefits;

* the right to claim a survivor pension;

* the ability to gain parental responsibility for each other's children;

* the right to register the death of a partner;

* recognition under inheritance and intestacy rules; and

* tenancy succession rights.

The proposals have been welcomed by lesbian and gay groups and unions. TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: "The TUC, which has long campaigned for equal rights for lesbians and gay men, strongly welcomes the government's proposals, and hopes that it won't be too long before legislation is on the statute book."

However, there are concerns that the new scheme will create an anomaly by giving rights to same-sex couples and surviving partners that are not enjoyed by unmarried heterosexual couples. This is an issue the TUC has also taken up, campaigning for changes in the major public service pension schemes, for example, which restrict benefits to married partners.

The consultation period will close on 30 September 2003. Civil partnership is available at www.womenandequalityunit.gov.uk or from the Department of Trade and Industry, tel: 020 7215 5000, textphone: 020 7215 6740.