UK lawmakers took a big step Tuesday toward legalizing same-sex marriage, an issue that has prompted widespread rebellion within Prime Minister David Cameron's Conservative Party.
In a 400-175 vote, MPs approved the second reading of a bill legalizing such marriage, indicating a significant majority of members support the measure.The Commons voted in favour of the Marriage(Same Sex Couples)Bill by 400 to 175, a majority of 225, at the end of a full day's debate on the bill.
Voting lists show that 136 Conservatives opposed the bill.This figure includes two cabinet ministers - Environment Secretary Owen Paterson and Welsh Secretary David Jones - eight junior ministers, and eight whips.
Of the remaining Conservative MPs, 127 were in favour, 35 did not vote, and five registered an abstention by voting both in favour and against.
Prime Minister David Cameron has described the move as "an important step forward" that strengthens society.
Deputy Prime Minister and Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg said: "I genuinely believe that we will look back on today as a landmark for equality in Britain.
Opposition leader Ed Miliband said: "This is a proud day and an important step forward in the fight for equality in Britain.
The bill faces another vote in the House of Commons and a vote in the House of Lords.
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