The last step to legalize gay marriage in Britain and Wales was completed today when Queen Elizabeth II gave her approval.
The first same sex marriages in Britain will be able to take place next summer 2014, according to USA Today. Gay couples will be able to legally marry in both civil and religious ceremonies, although gay marriage is not acknowledged through the Church of England. Couples who are currently in civil partnerships will also be able legally change their partnership to marriage.
The queen’s approval was the last formality for the bill, which was introduced in January, to pass and become a law. The bill was pushed by Prime Minister David Cameron, even though there was opposition to it in his own Conservative Party.
The members of parliament cheered when House of Commons Speaker John Bercow told them that the historic bill has officially passed with the Queen’s royal assent.
"This is a historic moment that will resonate in many people's lives," Culture Minister Maria Miller said, according to Fox News.
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