Isle of Man chief minister backs same-sex marriage bill

Allan Bell said the issue of same-sex marriage will be debated in the parliament of Tynwald during the next year following a public consultation

The Isle of Man's chief minister has backed plans to legalise same-sex marriage on the island.

Allan Bell said the move would "ensure fair treatment for all".

Depending on the results of a public consultation, which will be launched later this month, the bill could be introduced to Tynwald during the next year.

Same-sex couples on the island have been able to enter a civil partnership since April 2011, but not marriage.

The proposals would see two types of marriage - civil and religious - as well as the retention of civil partnerships and other changes to the marriage laws.

Mr Bell added: "I recognise that same-sex marriage legislation may generate some strong and polarised views."

'Dark days'

Homosexuality was illegal under Isle of Man law until 1992. The age of consent was set at 21 but has since been lowered to 16.

"The Isle of Man has come a long way since the dark days of the 1990s," continued Mr Bell.

"Embracing this legislation would reflect our position as a progressive society that takes seriously the rights of vulnerable people and minorities."