Civil partner ruling against heterosexual couple a fuss about nothing

‘Rebecca Steinfield and Charles Kedian may be right that losing their court of appeal ruling is discriminatory, but isn’t this a fuss about nothing?’ writes Martin Redfern. Photograph: REX/Shutterstock

The heterosexual couple, Rebecca Steinfeld and Charles Keidan, who have lost their court of appeal battle to have a civil partnership (Report, 21 February) may be correct that it’s discriminatory. But isn’t this a fuss about nothing? Civil partnerships weren’t introduced until 2005 in the UK – the very first time same-sex relationships were recognised and protected in law, when marriage wasn’t an option. Legislation and then gradually social attitudes have changed in the last 50 years, but discrimination still exists against gay men and lesbians. And the position is worse for the transgender community, potentially with issues around mental health, financial, employment and social isolation. Ms Steinfeld and Mr Keidan may be the victims of discrimination – but, c’mon guys, get over yourselves.
Martin Redfern
Edinburgh

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