UK parliament’s first gay MP wedding

LONDON - Europe Minister Chris Bryant got married to partner Jared Cranney in the first civil partnership at the Palace of Westminster.

They couple tied the knot in the MPs’ Dining Room.

Theirs was the first same-sex marriage to take place in the grounds of the Houses of Parliament after Speaker John Bercow obtained the necessary licence from Westminster City Council.

Bryant, who met Cranney on the local election campaign trail last April, opted for a more traditional outfit for the day.

Both grooms wore matching suits with New Labour purple ties.

“We never thought this day would come - and never thought we’d have to worry about cakes and flowers and rings,” News of the World quoted Bryant as saying.

“It’s amazing how much things have changed in such a short time. nly a few years ago there was a different gay age of consent.

“You could sack people or refuse to serve them just because of their sexuality and gays were banned from the military, from adopting or getting married,” Bryant added.

Bryant, who lives in Porth in the Rhondda Fach, said: “Parliament is special because it has made it possible. We are delighted that everyone in the UK can now share in a privilege that used to be available just to straight MPs.”

The ceremony was attended by Labour Deputy Leader Harriet Harman, Foreign Secretary David Miliband and Commons Speaker John Bercow. (ANI)