( CNN ) -- Early next year , British legislators will introduce a measure allowing gay marriage in England and Wales . Maria Miller , the Minister for Women and Equalities , issued a statement Tuesday announcing the plans . She added that the proposed legislation aims to `` create watertight protections for religious organizations '' that do n't want to conduct same-sex marriages . Those groups would n't be forced to perform same-sex marriages by law ; they would have a choice to `` opt in . '' In addition , the Church of England and `` the Church in Wales '' would be prohibited from performing such marriages unless the churches ' governing bodies change canon law , which currently prohibits it , the ministry said in a news release . `` Marriage is one of the most important institutions we have in this country , '' Miller said in the release . `` It binds us together , brings long-term commitment and stability , and makes society stronger . Our proposals mean that marriage would be available to everyone . `` I feel strongly that , if a couple wish to show their love and commitment to each other , the state should not stand in their way , '' she continued . `` These changes will strengthen marriage in our society and ensure that it remains a modern and vibrant tradition . And we are also building a fairer society for all . '' Miller said the legislation would allow same-sex couples to get married in civil ceremonies and would guard against anyone in England or Wales , or within Europe , challenging the law in court . European law protects religious freedom under Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights . Elsewhere in Great Britain , the Scottish Parliament is moving toward its own legislation on same-sex marriage while the Northern Ireland Assembly rejected a measure on the issue in October .
Minister for Women : Granting same-sex marriage rights can strengthen society . Comment: Lawmakers are expected to introduce legislation early next year .