The government has said that they are fully committed to bringing in equal marriage before 2015. David Cameron has twice given the measure his personal support. However, Downing Street last night announced that its MPs will not be forced to vote for the measure when it comes to Parliament.

Earlier today, the BBC received a statement from No. 10, stating that equal marriage rights were an issue of conscience, and as such, ministers of the government would be allowed to make up their own minds.

The issue is proving contentious, as Tory ministers Owen Paterson, Tim Loughton and Philip Hammond have all spoken out against the proposed change.

Watch this space, readers.