Conscience clause would have far-reaching consequences

Those opposing equal recognition for same gender couples might be publicly calling for a conscience clause to be introduced to protect those who object.

However, the probability is that it’s another tactic in their campaign and that most of them are terrified that such a proposal might be accepted. Those that aren’t should be.

If a conservatively-minded Roman Catholic registrar can reject a request from a same gender couple to register their civil marriage, then surely a primary teacher – sincerely believing that religion has been responsible for much violence and hatred in the world – should be free from having to teach it to children.