From next month, the UK will fall into line with a growing number of European countries and allow same-sex relationships to become legally binding. Gay and lesbian couples have been registering to have their relationships legally recognised in the form of a civil partnership under a law that takes effect on December 5.
A civil partnership is not a marriage but it does extend the same rights and responsibilities as those afforded a male and female union, such as next of kin rights and rights to a survivor's pension.
