A vote count shows that as may as 116
out of 127 members of the parliament of Scotland could favor a gay
marriage bill set for debate next week.
The
Scottish
Mail
on Sunday published a vote count which shows 86 lawmakers in
favor, 10 undecided and 20 refusing to answer.
Only 11 MSPs have confirmed that they
plan to vote against the measure as it faces its first legislative
hurdle on Wednesday. While a final vote remains nearly a year away,
securing approval “in principle” is likely to ensure passage.
Scottish Conservatives are divided on
the issue, with six opposed and four in favor.
“I believe the forthcoming bill on
same sex marriage is an issue of conscience, which is why I have
given Conservative MSPs a free vote on the issue,”said Ruth
Davidson, the party's leader. “I support same sex marriage and
will be voting to pass this bill.”
Holyrood's equal opportunities
committee will consider any amendments introduced following
Wednesday's vote.
If the bill becomes law, the first
weddings under the law would take place in 2015.