Good news: Maria Miller backs equal marriage

I’ve blogged before about why I’m cautious about writing off Maria Miller in her new equalities role before we’ve had a chance to see how she actually performs in post.

On the first big test for her in post, things look promising on the key issue pioneered by Lynne Featherstone:

The Conservative cabinet minister who was handed responsibility for gay marriage legislation in the reshuffle today dashes the hopes of religious groups and the Tory right that the Government is preparing to delay or shelve its proposals.

Writing about her views on the subject for the first time on Independent Voices the Culture Secretary Maria Miller says she believes gay marriage must be legalised to preserve Britain’s “proud history of freedom and fairness” and ensure that the institution remains relevant in the 21st century.

A good start. Let’s hope (and campaign to ensure!) there’s plenty more like that to come.