British civil unions for gays now incorporating religious elements

Same-sex ceremonies would appear almost identical to heterosexual weddings under the changes.

Equalities minister Lynne Featherstone has disclosed that the coalition Government is committed to talks on “what the next stage should be for civil partnerships”.

“This will include consideration of whether civil partnerships should be allowed to include religious readings, music and symbols,” she said in a Commons written answer.

The move will alarm Tory traditionalists. Former party chairman Lord Tebbit told The Daily Telegraph: “I wouldn’t want anything done to add to the pretence that a civil partnership is a marriage.”